Berlin Takes a Stand Against Antisemitism
Berlin, June 16, 2026 – “For a city where everything has a future. Except hate.” This message has been at the heart of the Berlin Against Antisemitism initiative since its launch by the Berlin Partner network in 2021. The initiative aims to raise awareness of antisemitism among organizations, businesses and the broader public, while strengthening recognition of and resistance to discrimination across the city. Since its inception, the campaign has combined internal corporate initiatives with public-facing activities designed to establish opposition to antisemitism as a lasting element of Berlin’s business culture and civic identity.
To mark the initiative’s fifth anniversary, Partner für Berlin is expanding the campaign by introducing additional ambassadors from the worlds of business, academia and civil society. The campaign continues to center on its core message: there is no place for antisemitism in Berlin. The expanded campaign will amplify this message through partner networks and their communication channels, reaching wider audiences across the city and beyond. New voices representing Berlin from a range of perspectives will join the initiative, reinforcing the values that define the German capital. Together with 16 Berlin-based networks, including DEHOGA, the Berlin Chamber of Skilled Crafts (HWK), the Berlin Chamber of Commerce and Industry (IHK), the Confederation of Business Associations in Berlin and Brandenburg (UVB), visitBerlin, medianet and the Association of Berlin Merchants and Industrialists (VBKI), the campaign aims to significantly broaden its reach and send an even stronger collective signal.
Dr. Stefan Franzke, CEO of Partner für Berlin, said: “Five years after the launch of the ‘Berlin Against Antisemitism’ initiative, one thing is clear: taking a stand is not a one-time act – it is an ongoing responsibility. Few cities embody freedom, diversity and openness as strongly as Berlin, while also carrying a unique historical responsibility. Against this backdrop, we believe it is essential to act together and send a clear message. Antisemitism, hate and exclusion have no place in Berlin. By bringing additional partners into the initiative, we aim to strengthen that message further and reaffirm our commitment to a respectful, diverse and open city where Jewish people feel safe and at home.”
To coincide with the anniversary, a joint event titled “Five Years of Berlin Against Antisemitism – United for a Respectful Berlin” will take place on June 16, 2026. Bringing together representatives from partner networks, the business community, government, civil society and Jewish organizations, the event will welcome approximately 200 participants to the Axica Convention Center at Brandenburg Gate. From 5:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m., attendees will exchange ideas, discuss concrete measures to combat antisemitism and discrimination, and celebrate the continuation and expansion of a campaign that has become an important part of Berlin’s civic engagement.
Berlin stands for diversity, openness and mutual respect. The campaign encourages individuals and organizations alike to actively embrace these values and translate them into meaningful action. Experience shows that collective commitment is often more effective than individual efforts. Standing together against antisemitism and discrimination is therefore also a commitment to the city itself – and an invitation for all Berliners to take a clear stand. In doing so, they join a growing community dedicated to safeguarding the values that make Berlin a vibrant, inclusive and internationally connected metropolis.