Crisis in local politics: Mayor under pressure in MV!

Crisis in local politics: Mayor under pressure in MV!

In Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, the tense social situation is increasingly the subject of public debate. The feeling of being “left behind” has increased in recent years, and the mood in city and community councils is becoming harsher. This reports Pro Peace who are closely monitoring the situation on site.

The journey to Schwerin, the country's capital, must be planned well; 100 kilometers and two and a half hours usually take three regional trains. But the effort is worth it, because the Cities and Municipalities Day represents the interests of the mayors. Susanne Miosga, spokeswoman for the committee, gets involved here and draws attention to the increasing conflicts. Debates on migration issues in particular are often characterized by a lack of respect and fairness.

Violence and resignations among elected officials

The situation has sometimes taken on worrying features: Mayor Stefan Fassbinder from Greifswald had to hold a meeting under police protection in 2024. In Neubrandenburg, a mayor even resigned to protect his private environment. “These are warning signs that cannot be ignored,” said Miosga. If volunteers withdraw from small communities, this could cause lasting damage to democratic participation.

The 2024 local elections took an explosive turn when the AfD became the strongest force in many local councils. According to surveys, the AfD is expected to grow further, as 38 percent of voters want to support this party in the 2026 state elections. Mayor Rico Reichelt from Boizenburg, who was only elected in 2022 as a stranger and with left-wing ideas, has already experienced a death threat during his three and a half years in office, which he considers to be relatively minor compared to other elected officials.

The importance of compromise

“After the local elections there was a scandal in Boizenburg,” said Reichelt. A CDU city representative was elected mayor with the votes of the AfD and a right-wing extremist group, again showing the tensions. Given such developments, it is important that compromises and constructive discussions are encouraged to restore trust in democratic processes.

A state program entitled “Strengthening democracy and tolerance together!” has existed since 2006. has set itself the goal of promoting the coexistence of different cultures. Initiatives in Torgelow are working intensively to strengthen such a dialogue and to convey how trust in society can be regained. Mayor Kerstin Pukallus emphasizes that a critical view from outside is often crucial in overcoming old conflicts.

The way forward

The commitment of citizens in places like Boizenburg, Ludwigslust and Torgelow is highlighted as a further sign of the right path. These people show that it is possible to build bridges and promote dialogue, despite the challenge posed by anti-democratic sentiment in some parts of the country. In the long term, it is crucial that municipalities can work objectively without discrediting or hindering democratic structures.

Developments in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania require attention and committed approaches to ensure both the quality of life and trust in politics. Pro Peace is also in close contact with local actors in order to develop options for action and consolidate the basic pillars of democracy.