Barbara Ludwig – Foreign Student Falls

Victim to Religious Discrimination

1998 was when Barbara Ludwig first came to Israel as a tourist. Originally German, Ludwig immediately fell in love with the Holy Land and decided to enroll in a philosophy track at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem. She obtained her B.A. a few years later, and subsequently chose to enroll in an advanced Master’s degree track, still at Hebrew University. "I was born in Germany, but I found my identity in Israel," Ludwig told Ha’aretz.

In 2004, Ludwig was called to the Israeli Interior Ministry and subjected to a demeaning and illegal interrogation, during which she was asked whether or not she believed Jesus is the Messiah. Even though her legal troubles persisted, Ludwig kept up her studies and managed to stay at or near the top of her class for a number of years.

In the wee hours of April 28th this year, however, the Israeli immigration police knocked on Ludwig’s door and deported her to Ma’asiyahu prison near Tel Aviv. The reason? Ludwig’s repeated requests for a student visa had been denied, because of her alleged involvement in “missionary activity.” Proselytizing is actually not illegal in Israel (except to minors or via bribery). In any case, Barbara does not engage in missionary activities in Israel. Furthermore, Israeli law clearly stipulates that a student visa should be given to every foreign student able to verify his or her enrollment in an Israeli institute of higher education.

Confused and hurt by the treatment given her, and aware that she had done no wrong, Ludwig contacted the Jerusalem Institute of Justice. On Thursday last week, after the intervention of our legal team, a judge ordered Ludwig released from prison. This week, JIJ attorneys submitted a petition to the District Court for Ludwig to legally remain in Israel until a final decision can be made in her case.

Ludwig’s case is pending. Although the police at the moment have no authority to arrest her again, a negative court ruling could send her back to Germany with no chance of return. She appreciates your prayers.

Standing Strong supports the Jerusalem Institute of Justice along with other worthy organizations and individuals in the land.