Anti-Racism

Racism is a painful part of daily life for far too many people and a threat to democracy and social cohesion.

For a long time, racism was ignored and often downplayed in public discourse, the media, and politics. Those affected have been, and continue to be, left to cope with their experiences on their own all too often. The aim of the Federal Government Commissioner for Anti-Racism’s work is to raise awareness of racism, combat it, and provide support to those affected.

Anti-racism as a responsibility of the state

The fight against racism is a responsibility of the state. It is enshrined in the German Basic Law and in international conventions ratified by the Federal Republic of Germany. Everyone has the right to live free from discrimination and racism. Policymakers must ensure that people affected by racism receive support.

The Office of the Federal Government Commissioner for Anti-Racism works to ensure that the concerns of those affected are heard across all political and social spheres. We must break down structural barriers and empower people to understand their rights and access support.

Since May 2025, Minister of State Natalie Pawlik has been the Federal Government Commissioner for Anti-Racism. In this role, she is committed to ensuring that racism is combated effectively in Germany. The post of Federal Government Commissioner for Anti-Racism has existed since 2022.

What is racism?

The “Expert Council on Anti-Racism”, appointed by the Federal Government Commissioner for Anti-Racism, has drawn up a working definition of racism for the use of federal, state, and local authorities. The definition fosters a shared understanding of racism and thereby lays the foundation for effective measures to combat its various forms. The definition was developed for practical application within administrative bodies, in line with the recommendations of the Expert Council.

Report on Racism

Racism takes many forms. It manifests in hatred and violence, but also in the quiet currents of everyday life, in careless remarks and subtle acts of exclusion. Another dimension is structural racism ¬, that is, racism that manifests itself in established practices and processes, as well as in structures and institutions.

Drawing on data, facts and analysis, the report “Racism in Germany (not accessible) [PDF, 4 MB] ” (2023) provides an overview of the various forms of racism and the measures taken by the Federal Government. It also highlights the gaps in the prevention of racism and in counselling services. It identifies research needs and areas for action in the fields of politics, society, the workplace, education, health care and the work of the security authorities.

Project funding from the Commissioner

The Federal Government Commissioner for Anti-Racism supports a range of projects aimed at assisting those affected, raising awareness, and empowering society to combat racism.

The “Community-based Anti-Racism Counselling” project, for example, helps expand and improve anti-racism advisory services in Germany. Following a racist incident, those affected should be able to access help from qualified counsellors in an accessible, direct and prompt manner. There are counselling centres all over Germany.

Through the project “Self-determined networking, remembrance and education” the Commissioner for Anti-Racism supports the work of initiatives founded by survivors and relatives of victims of right-wing and racist attacks. The aim is to support their work in the areas of remembrance, education and networking, and to bring their concerns into the political debate.