The controversial calendar released by the AfD city council faction in Senftenberg, Brandenburg, has placed the party at risk of legal trouble from multiple shipping companies. The calendar features images of cruise ships with slogans promoting nationalist and xenophobic messages. Six shipping companies, including Carnival Cruise Line and MSC Cruises, have expressed shock and disapproval over the misuse of their images for such messages.
The head of the international cruise association CLIA, Georg Ehrmann, has stated that legal options are being explored, including the possibility of demanding high compensation from the AfD. Despite inquiries and concerns raised by the shipping companies, the AfD city council faction has not provided timely responses to address the situation.
Research conducted by Rundfunk Berlin-Brandenburg (RBB) revealed that six shipping companies did not authorize the use of their images and logos in the AfD calendar. The calendar lacks proper image source references and a traditional imprint, which has raised concerns among the shipping companies involved. This controversy adds to ongoing criticism and scrutiny of the AfD in Brandenburg, with questions raised about the party’s messaging and tactics.
The situation highlights the potential legal consequences of using copyrighted material without permission, especially when promoting controversial ideologies. It is important for individuals and organizations to respect intellectual property rights when creating content or using others’ work to avoid legal trouble or reputational damage.
