Germany Ramps Up Efforts to Combat Rising Hate Crimes as Far-Right Extremism Surges
Germany’s security services are intensifying their actions to monitor and address the growing threat posed by modern far-right extremists in response to increased politically motivated hate crimes. The country’s domestic intelligence service recently classified the youth wing of the largest far-right party as a dangerous extremist group. This signifies a significant shift in how authorities perceive and tackle the issue, as they have historically underestimated its magnitude.
Several criminal investigations are underway targeting a small but potentially dangerous faction of far-right extremists known as Reichsbürger. These individuals allegedly plotted to overthrow the government and install an obscure hereditary prince, influenced by a mixture of right-wing conspiracy theories. The Federal Office for the Protection of the Constitution (BfV), Germany’s domestic intelligence service, has designated the youth wing of the Alternative for Germany (AfD) party as extremist. The AfD has transformed from a Eurosceptic party critical of the European Union into a prominent far-right political force. Recent opinion polls indicate that it holds 17% of the national vote, positioning it as the country’s third-largest party.
Experts on German far-right extremism highlight the real and dangerous nature of its rise, with allegations of involvement from ex-military servicemen and active police officers who have access to firearms. The popularity of the AfD has not only reshaped political discourse but also dragged centrist parties toward the right. The party gained prominence during the 2015 refugee crisis, which sparked anti-immigrant sentiments across Germany and Europe.
The classification of the AfD’s youth wing as extremist has drawn both support and criticism. Some view it as a necessary response, given the group’s documented links to even more radical far-right activities. However, the AfD denies fostering extremist views and may challenge the decision in court. Despite the classification, the party still enjoys significant national support, particularly in the eastern regions of the country.
The surge of far-right sentiment is evident throughout German society. Last year, almost 60,000 politically motivated crimes were recorded, with 41% attributed to far-right extremists. The number of reported hate crimes increased by 10% compared to the previous year, and three-quarters of these incidents were inspired by far-right ideology. In response to these figures, Interior Minister Nancy Faeser has proposed new, stricter gun laws. A recent survey conducted by the German Center for Integration and Migration Research revealed that 79% of respondents believe German democracy is in greater danger today than five years ago.
The federal prosecutor’s office has also detained three additional suspected far-right extremists linked to the Reichsbürger movement, which stands accused of plotting to overthrow the government. While the likelihood of achieving their goals remains low, these groups are considered dangerous, especially given the involvement of ex-military and ex-police members.
The rise of Germany’s far-right has not only led to the increased visibility of extremist views but has also influenced the language and politics of mainstream parties. The center-right has adopted some of the rhetoric previously associated with the far-right, resulting in a shift in public discourse and social norms. This change has affected voting trends and attitudes over the past decade, ultima
