We are witnessing how our society is changing. Right-wing extremist ideologies are increasingly penetrating the center of society. They disguise themselves as an alternative, as patriots or as representatives of national renewal – as part of a supposedly legitimate political discourse. But fascism is not a legitimate political stance. It’s based on oppression, violence and the abolition of basic democratic rights. It’s a threat that we must not ignore.
Being against fascism means not only criticizing it, but actively opposing it. One of the most effective ways to show a clear stance is not to support fascist structures. This also includes not giving them any economic space. Anyone who wants to defend democratic values must not normalize fascism – neither in words nor in deeds, neither in everyday life nor in business.
As self-employed people, entrepreneurs and store owners, we have a responsibility. Our economic decisions have a political impact – they can either strengthen democratic values or promote inhumane structures. We decide who we do business with – and who we don't. When we make it clear that we do not enter into business relationships with fascists or fascist organizations, we are sending out a signal. A signal against hatred, against exclusion, against the normalization of right-wing extremist ideas.
That's why I developed the NO BUSINESS WITH FASCISTS campaign graphic. Because I believe that economic activity can’t be viewed in isolation from our values. Especially in times when fascist ideologies are on the rise again, it’s more important than ever to draw clear boundaries. Those who want to defend democracy, diversity and human rights must not join forces with those who attack these principles.
NO BUSINESS WITH FASCISTS NO BUSINESS WITH FASCISTS NO BUSINESS WITH FASCISTS NO BUSINESS WITH FASCISTS #NBWF
NO BUSINESS WITH FASCISTS is more than just a statement – it’s an attitude. An attitude that shows that we leave no room for fascism. We do not tolerate inhuman ideologies in our environment, neither in our private lives nor at work. Anyone who works against fundamental rights, equality and diversity can’t be our business partner.
This statement is a clear commitment to democracy. Companies can actively implement their stance by consciously paying attention to who they do business with, publicly positioning themselves against right-wing extremist ideologies and supporting democratic initiatives. It means that we as a society do not allow inhumane structures to continue to grow. It means that we will not give up our values – not for profit, not for opportunism, not for the false idea of neutrality.
Let's show together: Fascism has no place – in our society and also not in our economic activities. Instead, we stand for an open, diverse and democratic future in which respect, equality and humanity form the basis of our coexistence.
#NOBUSINESSWITHFASCISTS
#NBWF
If you share this statement, you can use the campaign graphic to make your position public. It’s available free of charge, but may not be altered and must remain in its original form. Place the graphic on your website, in social media or in other suitable places to send a clear signal.
A clear stance against
fascism - how to
set an example
Here are ten concrete measures you can take to actively combat right-wing extremist structures in your professional environment:
1. Show attitude – publicly and unequivocally
Use your platforms to speak out clearly against fascism and for democracy, human rights and diversity – both online and offline. Make it clear in your store, on your website, or on social media that you will not do business with fascists. You can use my action graphic, for example.
2. Take a stand against right-wing agitation
If you see right-wing extremist statements in your business environment, be the one to speak up! Silence doesn't speak. Whether it's in discussions with customers, at events, or among colleagues, we must stand up and speak out against these slogans. Send a clear signal that such statements won't be tolerated in your company. Make it clear that your premises and your company won't be used as a platform for hatred and agitation.
3. No advertising in right-wing media
Instead, focus your advertising efforts on platforms that promote facts and reason, and steer clear of those funded by right-wing entrepreneurs. These platforms may masquerade as "critical voices" or "alternatives to the mainstream press," but by aligning with them, you're inadvertently contributing to the spread of ideologies that run counter to human dignity. So, before you invest your marketing budget, be sure to do your homework and choose platforms that genuinely value facts and freedom of thought. By choosing wisely, you'll be helping to build a better world, one where inhumane ideologies have no place.
4. No business with right-wing companies
Research who you work with and be selective about your partnerships. Choose companies that align with your values and avoid those that support right-wing structures. While not all companies are transparent about their positions, there are often signs you can look for, such as connections to right-wing networks, political statements by management, or support for certain organizations. By being mindful of your business relationships, you can play a significant role in reducing the economic support for right-wing structures.
5. Communicate clear values to emplyees
By fostering an environment where racism, discrimination, and right-wing extremist ideologies have no place, we can create a vibrant and inclusive workplace. Let's make it clear that such attitudes will not be tolerated. This starts with internal guidelines, continues in communication with your team, and is reflected in an active corporate culture. Provide training courses to raise awareness and encourage employees to take a clear stance against right-wing ideologies.
6. Support NGOs and initiatives
Collaborate with organizations that work against fascism and for democracy – whether through donations, volunteer work, or pro bono services. Every contribution counts, so support campaigns, offer your reach, or have your team participate in educational opportunities. Demonstrate that your company not only communicates values, but also actively contributes to their defense.
7. No room for right-wing events
Don’t let right-wing groups or parties use your premises for meetings, lectures or events – neither for a fee nor out of supposed neutrality. Find out exactly who wants to use your space and set clear limits in your terms of use. Don't be pressured – you have the domiciliary rights and can decide for yourself who is allowed to use your infrastructure. If you want to make a public statement: Use my action graphic to make it clear that right-wing ideologies have no place in your premises.
8. Promote diversity in your company
Make a conscious effort to be diverse in order to send a clear signal for inclusion, equality and against discrimination. Take active steps to support marginalized groups in your company – whether through diverse teams, fair wages, or targeted promotion. Diversity is not a marketing trend, but an essential component of an open society. Creating an inclusive corporate culture is an important contribution to combating right-wing extremist structures.
9. Show solidarity
Support colleagues and companies that take a stand against the right. Joint commitment strengthens the resistance against fascism. Link to and recommend companies that are clearly committed to democracy. If anti-fascist initiatives or committed companies are attacked or defamed, stand by them – whether through public support, networking or practical help.
10. Sensitize customers and partners
Use conversations, events or your network to raise awareness of the danger of right-wing extremist ideologies. Show why it’s important to draw clear boundaries in the business environment too. Many people are not aware of the links between business and right-wing structures – help raise awareness. Every step towards education helps to prevent fascism from becoming more acceptable.
You can find out more on these pages
Background information and useful facts
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Wikipedia: List of neo-Nazi organizations
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Federal Foreign Office: Study on international right-wing extremist and terrorist networks
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Twenty Lessons, read by John Lithgow: Key selections from On Tyranny, for viewing and sharing
Get active
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