Berlin 2024: German far-right political party disinvited from opening gala
The organisers of the Berlin International Film Festival have disinvited five members of the far-right political party Alternative für Deutschland (AfD), who were expected to attend the opening gala.
As it is a publicly funded event, the local legislature in Berlin states that members of all political parties should be invited. However, following a backlash due to recent far-right protests across Germany and the publication of a report that claims members of the AfD met with neo-Nazi’s in November to discuss a mass deportation scheme of immigrants, the invitation has been withdrawn.
Additionally, an open letter was signed by more than 200 figures who largely worked in the German industry, they claimed the AfD’s presence was “incompatible” with the ethics of the Berlin International Film Festival.
In a statement, directors Mariëtte Rissenbeek and Carlo Chatrian said: “Especially in light of the revelations that have been made in recent weeks about explicitly anti-democratic positions and individual politicians of the AfD, it is important for us – as the Berlinale and as a team – to take an unequivocal stand in favour of an open democracy.”
The message continued: “We have therefore today written to all previously invited AfD politicians and informed them that they are not welcome at the Berlinale.”
In response, AfD politician Kristin Brinker, revealed to the Morgenpost she was “astonished” by the turn of events. Brinker claimed it was “tantamount to disinviting the entire AfD and we have been completely excluded from one of the most important cultural events in this city, if not this country.”
The Berlin International Film Festival launches on February 15th, 2024, and is scheduled to last for ten days. The opening film is the world premiere of Small Things Like These, starring Cillian Murphy and directed by Tim Mielants.
Chatrian said of Small Things Like These: “We are confident that this story that allies the kindness to be directed to the more fragile, and the willpower to stand up against injustice, will resonate with everyone. We are looking forward to launching this ‘quiet’ yet quite exceptional film at the start of Zeitgeist Irland 24, a year-long celebration of Irish culture in Germany.”
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