Nessa Finnegan of Berlin's Irish Bloc discusses Berlin police conduct at demos, language restrictions, and surveillance. They share insights on the diplomatic incident at a pro-Palestinian camp. The discussion also includes solidarity with Palestine, challenges of cultural expression, and community building through demos in Berlin.
Berlin police violence at demos sparked a diplomatic incident with Irish Bloc in Berlin.
Language restrictions imposed by Berlin police hindered expression at pro-Palestinian camp.
Irish solidarity led to international incident highlighting challenges and need for support in protests.
Deep dives
Insight into the Irish Block in Berlin
The podcast episode delves into the issues faced by the Irish Block in Berlin, where Berlin cops have reportedly been engaging in violent incidents at demonstrations. Nessa Finnegan from the Irish Block joins the conversation to shed light on the diplomatic incident involving their group at a pro-Palestinian camp. The group was formed in solidarity with Palestine, attending demonstrations and organizing actions together. They faced issues of language restrictions set by the police at the camp, highlighting challenges faced in expressing support for Palestine.
Challenges Faced During the Demonstration
The podcast shares details of the challenges encountered during the demonstration at the camp, where the police imposed restrictions on speaking languages other than English and German, leading to a ban on certain languages. The episode discusses the intense surveillance and policing experienced during the demos, with instances of violent actions by the police. The presence of Irish participants aimed to offer support and create a protective barrier for people speaking Arabic.
Escalation at the Protest Camp
The escalation at the protest camp is described, with accounts of police intervention and tactics used during the clearance. The episode highlights the peaceful activities within the camp, including educational workshops and conversations, contrasting them with the intense scrutiny and surveillance by the police. The podcast reveals the tension arising from being under constant police surveillance, impacting the sense of safety within the camp.
Response to the Incidents and Future Actions
The response to the incidents involving the Irish Block at the camp led to an international incident and engagement with the Irish Embassy. The podcast follows the group's interactions with the police, their adherence to guidelines, and the potential for future demonstrations. It emphasizes the solidarity and connection formed through demonstrations, welcoming diverse participants to join protests and advocate for causes.
Additional Events and Calls for Action
The episode highlights upcoming events such as the international reading of children's names, reflecting on the impactful stance taken by protesters and academics in various demonstrations. It discusses the responses from universities, media, and authorities to protests, signaling a shift in policing and political responses. The podcast encourages engagement in peaceful protests and opportunities for advocacy and support for meaningful causes.
Displaying their usual tact and charm, Berlin cops have been beating people up at demos, making up rules as they go along about what languages you can speak, and then following people around while they go for pints. Nessa Finnegan of Berlin's Irish Bloc joins Megan and Konrad to talk about the diplomatic incident their conversation circle caused at the pro-Palestinian camp. Sláinte!