Ruedi and the Eritreans (Swiss Press Text 2018, by Christof Gertsch) - Swiss Press Award
Das Magazin
Christof Gertsch
Based on the Lucerne village of Malters, which has taken in 25 refugees from Eritrea, the author describes “an exercise in Helvetic integration”. The protagonist is Ruedi, a 67-year-old retired judge. He made himself available to the “Integration for Asylum Seekers” support group of the municipal council and, despite administrative obstacles, sincerely strives to find community work in farming and internships for refugees. It is an undertaking full of ups and downs, as are the leisure activities and German lessons organized by the conscientious villagers. This mindful approach, not without its misunderstandings, temporarily culminates in the traditional creek and meadow clean-up, where residents and asylum seekers get closer to one another – not just in terms of proximity.
Interview with Christof Gertsch
