A month ago, over 300 scholars, including Arturo Escobar and Gloria Wekker, signed an open letter denouncing German complicity in Israel’s alleged genocide against Palestinians and the subsequent censorship of its critics.
The letter’s claims gained grim validation as Israeli army actions in Gaza and the West Bank escalated. On January 11, South Africa presented evidence of genocidal intent by Israel to the International Court of Justice.
Despite mounting evidence, the German state maintains its support for Israel. Shockingly, Germany has chosen to challenge South Africa’s plea at the court, showcasing an unwavering commitment to what some describe as an ongoing genocide. Within Germany, censorship has intensified, and instances of harassment against critical voices have surged.
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A Berlin-based decolonial research group, the [decoco], prompted by concerns over the persecution of critical voices, requested Al Jazeera to publish the open letter 30 days after its initial circulation.
The original letter, signed by academics from various global regions, condemns censorship, persecution, and threats faced by those critical of Israel’s policies in Germany. It accuses Israel of pursuing a genocidal policy against Palestinians, citing attacks on civilians and health facilities as war crimes. The letter also highlights the German government’s misuse of Holocaust memories to stifle dissent and fuel xenophobia.
The scholars urgently call for an end to censorship, persecution, and stigmatization, advocating for the restoration of respect for academic, cultural, and intellectual expression. They further urge the German State to support a comprehensive ceasefire, end the occupation, adhere to international law, and cease all political and discursive support for alleged war crimes against Palestinians.
