Berlin, December 23 – Elif Eralp, the top candidate for Die Linke in Berlin’s upcoming 2026 election, has voiced strong opposition to the rising trend of forced evictions in the city, with a particular emphasis on implementing a moratorium during the winter season. Her call comes amidst a notable increase in eviction proceedings in Berlin.
Alarming Rise in Eviction Cases
Data from 2024 reveals a concerning surge in eviction lawsuits filed with Berlin’s district courts, totaling over 7,500. This represents a significant increase compared to last year, which saw 2,111 forced evictions – a rise of 135 cases from the previous year. Currently, nearly one in three eviction lawsuits culminates in a forced eviction, underscoring the growing severity of the issue.
Speaking to the German Press Agency, Eralp articulated Die Linke Berlin’s firm stance against forced evictions, especially those stemming from rental debts. “It cannot be that people are put on the street in the cold in the winter. I find it unbelievable that there is no such eviction moratorium,” she stated, highlighting the urgent need for protective measures.
Call for a Winter Eviction Stop and Replacement Housing
Eralp is advocating for a comprehensive eviction stop during the winter months. She emphasized the critical timing: “We are close to the Christmas holidays, the temperatures will fall below zero degrees at night, and at the same time, the number of forced evictions in the city is increasing.” Beyond a temporary halt, Die Linke’s position is that all individuals facing eviction should be provided with suitable replacement housing.
Eralp noted that those facing forced eviction often grapple with complex personal challenges. She described them as “often addicted to drugs, have psychological problems or can no longer get their everyday life in order.” In such circumstances, individuals might “no longer open their mailboxes – out of overstrain and fear of even more bills,” exacerbating their precarious situations.
Die Linke Proposes Personal Eviction Notice Delivery
In response to these challenges, Die Linke is proposing a new model for eviction actions, where notices would be personally handed over to tenants. This initiative draws inspiration from a suggestion by former left-wing justice senator, Lena Kreck. The proposed system would necessitate a direct interaction with tenants at their homes to deliver eviction notices, thereby opening avenues for dialogue and facilitating access to support services, such as debt counselling.
This approach aims to bridge the communication gap that often leads to escalating problems for vulnerable tenants, providing an opportunity for intervention before evictions become unavoidable. By ensuring personal contact, Die Linke hopes to offer more timely and effective assistance to those at risk of losing their homes.
The push for an eviction moratorium and revised notice procedures reflects Die Linke’s commitment to addressing housing insecurity in Berlin, particularly as the city approaches the colder winter months and the holiday season.
Źródło: https://www.the-berliner.com/english-news-berlin/eralp-makes-a-stand-against-forced-evictions/
