Germany „Incompatible with Hatred and Incitement“ Evangelical Pathfinders Reject AfD Members for Hate and Incitement
The Christian Pathfinders have decided with a large majority on Saturday that membership in the AfD excludes membership in their own VCP association. The same applies to the party’s youth and university organization as well as their Desiderius Erasmus Foundation.
Membership in the AfD is incompatible with membership in the Association of Christian Pathfinders (VCP). A corresponding document entitled „VCP – Incompatible with Hatred and Incitement“ was adopted by the 55th Federal Assembly of the Association on Saturday at Burg Rieneck in Lower Franconia, the VCP announced on Saturday in response to the Evangelical Press Service (epd). In addition, the evangelical Pathfinders called for more funding for youth work from government and church authorities.
The incompatibility with the AfD was decided by a large majority, said VCP Secretary-General Till Strang. According to him, this also applies to their factions, parliaments, the youth organization „Young Alternative for Germany“, the university organization Campus Alternative, and the Desiderius Erasmus Foundation. The educational goals of the VCP and its Christian values are „diametrically opposed“ to those of the AfD. In the unanimously adopted position paper entitled „Youth Work – Now More Than Ever,“ it states that in the face of „growing threats from right-wing extremism and anti-democratic ideologies,“ increased government funding for youth work is essential. The VCP calls on politicians and churches to provide more funding for youth work and to promote early prevention work.
It is also necessary to intensify cooperation between government agencies, churches, civil society organizations, and schools, the paper says. Only together can we succeed in protecting young people from extremist ideologies and maintaining a democratic society in the long term. Last year, the Federal Assembly decided to have the issue of sexualized violence in their association scientifically examined. This process is ongoing and is expected to be completed in two years, said Secretary-General Strang. In the VCP, based in Kassel, around 20,000 young people are active nationwide, with around 5,000 serving as volunteer workers. The goal of the Pathfinder is to educate tolerance and the ability for democracy, protect nature and the environment, orient towards the gospel, internationality, and the joy of adventure.
Additional Information:
It is important for organizations like the VCP to take a stand against hate and extremism to protect the values they uphold. By rejecting AfD members, they are sending a clear message about their commitment to promoting tolerance, democracy, and inclusivity. The call for increased funding for youth work is crucial in ensuring that young people are provided with opportunities to engage in positive activities and steer clear of radical ideologies. By working together with various stakeholders, including schools and government agencies, the VCP can create a united front against extremist influences and foster a more democratic society for future generations.