In a recent statement, Diakonie President Rüdiger Schuch declared that individuals who support the far-right party Alternative for Germany (AfD) should not be allowed to work within their organization. Schuch argued that the AfD promotes a hostile worldview that contradicts the Christian values upheld by Diakonie. While he emphasized the importance of engaging in dialogue before taking any disciplinary actions, Schuch made it clear that employees who express discriminatory views have no place in Diakonie’s social welfare institutions.
According to Schuch, individuals who align themselves with the AfD, especially those who make discriminatory remarks, should not be employed in facilities run by the evangelical social welfare organization. While no cases of dismissal related to AfD affiliation have been reported within Diakonie Deutschland so far, Schuch stressed the need for addressing such issues through meaningful conversations with employees. He highlighted the importance of employees understanding that discriminatory behavior is not tolerated within Diakonie facilities and that failure to adhere to these standards may result in legal consequences.
Schuch’s stance on barring AfD supporters from working in Diakonie institutions comes in response to the increasing visibility of AfD sympathizers in various sectors. Recently, the media reported on the case of an evangelical pastor from Saxony-Anhalt who lost his position due to his involvement with the AfD. Other religious organizations, such as the Catholic Church, have also taken action against individuals supporting the far-right party. Schuch justified his position by emphasizing the need to protect vulnerable individuals who seek assistance from Diakonie, stating that employees who engage in discriminatory behavior towards migrants or disabled individuals must be held accountable.
The Diakonie Deutschland serves as the federal association for various evangelical social welfare organizations and professional associations. With approximately 33,000 facilities offering services such as nursing homes, hospitals, daycare centers, counseling centers, and social care services, Diakonie employs around 627,000 staff members and relies on the support of approximately 700,000 volunteers. Schuch’s statement reflects the organization’s commitment to upholding Christian values and ensuring a safe and inclusive environment for all individuals who benefit from Diakonie’s services.
Schuch stressed the importance of addressing discriminatory behavior within the organization, especially in the context of supporting vulnerable populations. He highlighted the need for ongoing dialogue with employees who express far-right views to ensure that they understand the implications of their actions. While Schuch acknowledged the complexity of managing such situations, he reiterated that employees who engage in discriminatory behavior that contradicts Diakonie’s values will face consequences, including potential dismissal.
As debates around the role of political affiliation in social welfare organizations continue to unfold, Schuch’s statement underscores the organization’s commitment to promoting inclusivity and protecting individuals from discrimination within their facilities. By taking a firm stance against employees who support parties like the AfD and advocate for discriminatory views, Diakonie reinforces its dedication to upholding Christian principles and creating a supportive environment for all individuals seeking assistance through their services.
