Foreign students at the University of Technology in Cottbus, Germany, are facing increasing concerns over the rise of the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party in the region. The university, known for its diverse and vigorous study program, attracts a large number of international students, particularly from India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh. Despite the university’s efforts to promote an inclusive environment and counter right-wing extremism through education and workshops, the surrounding area’s growing xenophobic climate and the potential for the AfD to gain more political power in upcoming state elections have raised fears among the student body about their safety and the future of multiculturalism in the area.
- The University of Technology in Cottbus has a significant number of international students, with nearly half of its 7,000 students coming from abroad.
- Cottbus is notable for offering a master’s program in Artificial Intelligence, which is conducted in English, attracting many international students.
- Students appreciate the university’s international and cosmopolitan orientation but are concerned about the increasing influence of the far-right AfD party in the region.
- The far-right AfD leads in polls for the upcoming September State elections in three Eastern German states, including where Cottbus is located.
- University president, Gesine Grande, and students express concern over the coordinated and cooperative networks of extreme right-wing groups in the area.
- The university has developed a program against right-wing extremism, the first of its kind in Germany, which includes workshops and education on right-wing symbols.
- Despite the welcoming environment of the university and the city, the presence of far-right stickers and attempts by far-right members to book rooms for events on campus have been reported.
- Students and faculty fear for the university’s reputation and the safety of its multicultural community in the face of rising far-right influence.
- The university asserts its autonomy in research, teaching, and campus organization, protected by the constitution, regardless of political changes.
- Both international students and the university emphasize the need for an inclusive environment and the importance of qualified workers for the region’s future.
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