Nach der Berlin-Wahl: Linke, Grüne und SPD in Berlin beschließen Sondierungen

Following the Berlin election, the Left, Green and Social Democratic parties have agreed to conduct exploratory talks regarding forming a government. This decision came two and a half weeks after the election for the Berlin parliament. The parties' unity was contingent upon reaching a common understanding on the sensitive issue of antisemitism.

In their shared agreement, they pledged to protect Jewish life, strengthen community bonds, and strive for peace and understanding. They reaffirmed their commitment to the existence of Israel as "non-negotiable" and agreed to bolster police and constitutional protection forces in their efforts to safeguard Jewish life in Berlin.

Any party or faction members found violating these principles would face exclusion, with consequences decided internally by the respective faction and communicated transparently. Additionally, the Left, Green and SPD agreed to avoid contact with organized crime and take disciplinary action against any members involved in such misconduct.

The parties also vowed to maintain a clear distance from individuals and groups linked to organized crime. Exploratory talks with the aim of forming a coalition began based on this agreement. The Left, Green and SPD had already appointed their respective investigation teams some time ago. The exploratory processes are distinct from coalition negotiations, as the parties will identify key issues and assess the feasibility of coalition talks.

The Left emerged as the strongest force with 25.7 percent in the September 20 election. It is now aiming for a coalition with the Greens and Social Democrats. If successful, the party could potentially become the first female mayor in Berlin, given its co-fracture leader Elif Eralp. The Green and SPD made antisemitism, handling of racism and organized crime as a condition for the initiation of exploratory talks.

These conditions arose from several incidents involving the Left, which had raised concerns among potential coalition partners. The Berlin Left has faced criticism for its positions on Israel-Palestine and antisemitism, notably following a party event on September 20 where a leader of an Arab-origin and partly criminal clan, as well as an embattled pro-Palestinian activist, were present.

He is believed to be affiliated with the Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine (PFLP), an organization classified by the EU as a terrorist group.