Gevelsberg's anti-far-right group accuses mayor of illegal surveillance and GDPR breaches
A dispute has erupted in Gevelsberg between the local Alliance Against the Far Right and the city administration. The group accuses Mayor Claus Jacobi of attempting to surveil its members and violating data protection laws. At the heart of the conflict lies a demand for personal information in exchange for continued use of a municipal meeting space.
The row began when the city asked alliance members to provide personal details before allowing them to keep using the premises. The alliance claims this move was an attempt to criminalise them and create a 'list of political beliefs'. They also allege breaches of the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and restrictions on freedom of association.
The city administration denies any wrongdoing. Officials state they never banned the alliance from the space and reject accusations of compiling lists of names. However, they did inquire about the group's connections to Antifa and the regional network *Ennepe-Ruhr Stands Firm*. Despite the tensions, the city now holds the names of four individuals representing the alliance. This allows the group to continue using the premises for now. The alliance, backed by various democratic parties and organisations, remains frustrated. They have demanded that any collected data be 'immediately and verifiably destroyed'. The group is currently reviewing the city's statements and will decide on further action in the coming days.
The dispute highlights ongoing friction between local authorities and anti-far-right activists in Gevelsberg. The alliance's demand for data destruction remains unresolved, while the city maintains its position. Both sides are preparing for potential next steps in the conflict.
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