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On 27 July 2026, the multiplier workshop for the project ‘Nothing is in the Past – Human Rights Education for Democratic Coexistence’ took place at the University of Applied Sciences for Public Management and Security in Giessen, with the aim of supporting the diverse participants in their further training and courses at the University, as well as in their police work.
The participants, representing the fields of police prevention of politically motivated crime and extremism, migration, police headquarters, partner local authorities, the University Teaching Support Service and the two departments at the HöMS, had the opportunity, through the first module designed for the project – ‘Knowledge of forms of group-focused hostility and opening up one’s own scope for action’ – to exchange ideas and methodologies, with a view to sustainably implementing the project – which is funded by the federal programme “Demokratie Leben” (Living Democracy) of the Federal Ministry of Education, Family, Senior Citizens, Women and Youth – within the Hessian police force and administration.
The workshop participants © Cornelia Rotter (HöMS)
In terms of content, the first module – which was piloted in Bochum in December 2025 – addresses the interrelated themes of antisemitism, racism and human rights education. It aims, by encouraging reflection on one’s own position in society, discussing the perspectives of those affected by anti-Semitic and racist discrimination, and teaching the history of these two forms of group-focused hostility, to strengthen participants’ ability to tolerate ambiguity and their confidence in taking action within polarised political debates.
The event forms part of ongoing efforts to raise awareness amongst the Hessian police and civil service of the challenges posed by group-focused hostility through training, further education and specialist events. The aim is to strengthen the attitudes and practical skills of members of these professional groups so that they can resolutely oppose racism, anti-Semitism and all forms of discrimination.
During the workshop, participants emphasised their responsibility to act as multipliers within the context of their educational remit. They made it clear that they wish to further develop their professional, pedagogical and methodological skills in a targeted manner in order to effectively integrate the aforementioned topics into their educational work and to empower the relevant target groups in the long term.
Information and resources: Projektseite des Fritz Bauer Forums · Contact: niv@fritz-bauer-forum.de
