The Union of International Democrats (UID) will hold a press conference in Cologne on 30 October to mark the 65th anniversary of the German-Turkish labour recruitment agreement. The organisation is also calling for stronger action against racism, anti-Muslim hostility and discrimination.
The labour recruitment agreement between Germany and Turkey was signed on 30 October 1961. Ahead of its 65th anniversary, the UID paid tribute to the first generation of Turkish workers who contributed to Germany’s economic development under often difficult working conditions.
In its statement, the organisation highlighted the work carried out in factories, mines and construction sites. It said later generations of people with Turkish roots now play an active role across science, business, politics, education, healthcare, culture and sport.
Call to combat racism and discrimination
The UID stressed that the shared history also includes painful chapters. The racist attacks in Mölln and Solingen, the murders committed by the National Socialist Underground (NSU) and the Hanau attack were cited as reminders of the need to confront racism, far-right extremism, xenophobia and anti-Muslim hostility.
The statement also paid tribute to Mevlüde Genç, who lost five family members in the Solingen arson attack but continued to advocate peace and peaceful coexistence.
The organisation called for equal opportunities in education, employment and political representation, protection of dual citizenship and more effective action against discrimination.
Press conference planned in Cologne
The UID’s press conference is scheduled for Friday, 30 October, at 4 p.m. at its headquarters in Cologne. A dinner with members of the first generation will follow.
The organisation said the event aims to express gratitude and respect for the generation whose work helped shape Germany over the past 65 years.
