Statement by PA-Allies and the Arrest Press Unit: Statement on Arrests and Police Violence – 31.12.2024 “No New Year Celebration During Genocide” on December 31, 2024
In order to make the documentation of state repression and police violence during demonstrations easily accessible in one place, the following statement from PA Allies of the Arrest Press Unit is also listed here on the PS website with the permission of PA Allies and Arrest Press Unit:
by Pallies and the Arrest Press Unit
Berlin, 01. January 2025
During the peaceful demonstration “No New Year Celebration During Genocide” on December 31, 2024, at Berlin Kochstraße Checkpoint Charlie, initial reports indicate that 12 participants were arrested by the Berlin police. One individual was detained overnight at the GESA (Detention Center). The documentation of these events was carried out by a team accompanying the demonstration. This documentation includes eyewitness accounts, witness statements, and video as well as photographic evidence.
The active role of the police in escalating the situation is particularly concerning. Despite the designated areas for counter-protests, the police allowed two pro-Israel counter-protesters to enter the area of the pro-Palestine demonstrators. This deliberate provocation led to tensions among the participants. Instead of intervening to de-escalate, the police tolerated these targeted provocations, further exacerbating the situation.
Additionally, reports indicate that some demonstrators who attempted to leave the protest were prevented from doing so by the police. This action represents another violation of the right to freedom of assembly.
It was also observed that one demonstrator was violently thrown to the ground and arrested by the police, despite offering no resistance. This individual was then brutally carried into a police vehicle. Such actions are disproportionate and highlight the systematic use of force by the Berlin police against the protest movement.
Furthermore, a media representative from the Axel Springer publishing house physically assaulted one demonstrator and verbally insulted several others. Although this individual was reported to the authorities on-site, they were allowed to return to the demonstration after their personal details were recorded.
Injuries Caused by Police Violence
The violence by the police resulted not only in physical injuries but also in psychological stress and fear among the demonstrators. It was documented that the police failed to respond appropriately to visible signs of pain or psychological distress among detained individuals. Instead of calming the situation or providing necessary medical assistance, the officers ignored these conditions and continued their use of force.
Collaboration Between Police and Media
It was observed that the police worked deliberately with media outlets to construct a narrative of “aggressive demonstrators”. This tactic aims to discredit legitimate protests and justify repression. Such portrayals fuel anti-Palestinian and anti-Muslim racism in public discourse.
Police Violence Must Be Stopped
The demonstrations advocate for justice and freedom for Palestinians. Freedom of assembly and freedom of expression are fundamental rights that must be upheld for everyone. Neither provocations nor police violence should restrict legitimate protests. The protest for a free Palestine will continue on the streets of Berlin.
We demand:
an immediate end to disproportionate and unlawful police violence
an independent investigation and review of police violence
the suspension of police officers who use unlawful violence
the introduction of child protection measures at demonstrations and unconditional compliance with the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child
protective measures for vulnerable groups, such as people with disabilities, from police violence