Michael Brand: A Champion for Individual Liberties
In a surprising move, the Federal Government has tapped Michael Brand, CDU, to balance two crucial roles. Besides his existing post as parliamentary state secretary in the Federal Ministry of Family Affairs, Brand will now serve as the Commissioner against Antiziganism. This decision, set to be proposed by Federal Minister of Family Affairs, Karin Prien (CDU), follows internal government discussions.
With a solid background in human rights work, the 51-year-old Brand offers valuable experience. Born in Fulda, he graduated from the University of Bonn in 2001 after completing his military service and earning a master's degree in political science, history, and law. During his studies, Brand worked at the European Balkan Institute and served as an OSCE election observer in Sarajevo for a year. Since 2005, he's been representing his hometown of Fulda in the German Bundestag. From 2013 to 2017, he chaired the committee for human rights and humanitarian aid, and he's since served as the human rights spokesman for the Union faction. His dedication has already caused diplomatic friction – China denied him entry in 2016 due to his support for Tibetans, Uighurs, and Christians under suppression.
Welcoming this personnel decision, the Central Council of German Sinti and Roma appreciates Brand's commitment to the Society for Threatened Peoples, a long-time ally of the council. Recognizing Brand'scommitment to addressing Antiziganism, the Central Council highlights his qualifications for the new position.
Brand assumes the role previously held by Mehmet Daimagüler, who resigned for personal reasons. In a previous crisis, the position appeared endangered, sparking concerns among Sinti and Roma associations.
As the newly appointed Commissioner against Antiziganism, Brand inherits a challenging but crucial role. The position aims to combat discrimination, racism, and prejudice directed at the Romani community in Germany. Responsibilities include monitoring and documenting discrimination, advising the government on policy, supporting victims, raising public awareness, and dismantling hostile rhetoric and violence against Romani communities.
Anti-Romani sentiment persists as a significant problem in Europe, with Romani people often confronted by exclusion, violence, and systemic discrimination. The appointment of a commissioner signifies a governmental commitment to confronting these challenges.
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[1] "Antiziganism" - https://www.hate-help.de/en/hate_crimes/forms_of_hate_crimes/antiziganism.php[1] "European Roma Rights Centre" - https://www.errc.org/pages/defining-antigypsyism
Michael Brand, with his extensive background in human rights work and dedication to combating discrimination, has been appointed as the new Commissioner against Antiziganism in Germany. This move is significant in the ongoing attempt to address the persistent issue of anti-Romani sentiment in Europe, as the role aims to combat discrimination, racism, and prejudice directed at the Romani community. Subscribing to news sources like nd.Kompakt can keep you updated on policy developments and general news related to personal growth, education and self-development, policy and legislation, and politics regarding the Romani community.
