It has been a question of when and not if, corona virus would find its way to lagers in Brandenburg too. Separate containers have been set on the compounds and some of the refugees have been under quarantine. The first three cases from the refugees who have been quaranted in Doberlug-Kirchhain have now tested positive. The refugees are now living in fear and scared of their lives because they are aware, there is very little they can do to prevent themselves of being infected with the covid-19.

So far, they are supposed to wear masks, each has been presented with one because they aren`t more in the moment. They are still allowed to go into the city, if necessary but only in a group of two persons. They have been warned of being fined if the police finds them breaking the social distance law of 1,5m. The camp will not be in quarantine as a whole unless many refugees in the camp test positive.

Organisations working with refugees have been demanding for the closure of lagers for many years and the demands have got intensified since the break of the covid-19. Press releases from different organisations in Berlin and Brandenburg and German wide have been focusing on the closure of the camps and moving the refugees to alternative spaces. After police invaded the dention camp in Suhl (Thüringen), it was obvious for the refugees no solution could be found. Physical distancing is impossible in the often crowded way they are accommodated and the sharing of the amenities such as bathrooms, toilets and kitchens or dining halls.

Doberlug-Kirchhain should be closed immediately! Close all Camps!!