For decades, a commitment to international law has been a cornerstone of German foreign policy. Given its history, Germany has championed the further development of international criminal law both internationally and domestically. The question now is whether this commitment still holds true. More and more experts are speaking out about the double standards Germany applies to its allies, particularly Israel.
The German government defines Israel’s security as part of Germany’s national interest and regards this as unconditional solidarity with the State of Israel, regardless of its actions. Against the backdrop of the Holocaust, however, experts are calling for a universal understanding of historical responsibility that prioritises the protection of human dignity and the enforcement of international law over political alliances.
In light of the allegations levelled at Israel by international courts and human rights organisations – illegal occupation and a system of apartheid in the Palestinian territories, war crimes, crimes against humanity, and alleged genocide in Gaza – the German government is coming under increasing pressure to justify its stance. Whilst the Israeli government is preventing a two-state solution through settlement projects and the annexation of the West Bank, occupying further territories in Gaza, Lebanon and Syria, and effectively introducing the death penalty solely for Palestinians, Berlin is stepping up its military cooperation with Israel. Legal experts warn that this means the German government is bearing some of the blame. What is more, it undermines Germany’s credibility both abroad and at home – other countries are distancing themselves, and citizens are becoming disengaged.
It is no longer just people with a Palestinian migrant background who are affected by the curtailment of civil liberties; the ‘majority society’ is also growing concerned. According to surveys, just under 70 per cent of Germans are calling for policies that are guided by international law rather than national interests.
The panel will discuss how Germany can reconcile its historical responsibility towards Israel with its commitment to universal human rights and the defence of principles of international law. And what it means for democracy in this country if this does not succeed.
