Shocking conditions in Berlin's subway: An American reports

Shocking conditions in Berlin's subway: An American reports

The Berlin Verkehrsbetriebe (BVG) are again criticized after an incident that shocked a American. The man experienced a disturbing image of homelessness while driving on the subway, which he compared to the devastating opioid crisis in the USA. He reported on Reddit about an unbearable encounter with a strongly neglected homeless in the U6, which stank so that many passengers left the train. "I cannot believe how bad the situation of the homeless has become in Germany," said the US citizen, who has lived in Europe since 1999. This not only represents an alarming picture for tourists, but also raises questions about the responsibility of the welfare state, since the winter conditions could further exacerbate for many homeless people, while the Berlin Senate is also planning to save in the social sector, such as Berlin Live reported.

discrimination and violence in public transport

In addition to these worrying social challenges, the district court Mitte has made a historical judgment against the BVG. This was convicted of paying 1,000 euros in damages to the opera singer Jeremy Osborne after he was discriminated against and physically attacked in October 2020. Osborne, a native American, had come across an argument with the inspectors during a check in the U2. Despite his valid ticket, he was confronted with discriminatory and violent statements, which resulted in a complaint at the ombudsman. As taz , the case was pushed back and forth until the violation of his personal rights was finally clearly determined by the court. Osborne has thus created a precedent in the history of the BVG, which emphasizes the need for better training for employees to avoid discrimination.

in a climate in which racist incidents repeatedly occur, the judgment is a small victory in the fight against discrimination in public spaces. The incident has made it clear that various social problems and power relationships must also be addressed seriously and sustainably in Berlin's revitalized local transport.