Author: Deborah Cole in Berlin
In recent elections in two German states, a far-right party made history by becoming the largest force in a state parliament since World War II. The Alternative für Deutschland (AfD) party secured top positions in Thuringia and second place in Saxony, causing concern for mainstream parties like Chancellor Olaf Scholz’s centre-left Social Democrats (SPD). The rise of the AfD prompted calls for governments to be formed without right-wing extremists. Simultaneously, a new populist force emerged on the left with the Sahra Wagenknecht Alliance (BSW) making a strong showing. As no party won an absolute majority, the BSW could play a…
The anticipated ruling by a Berlin court on the controversial case of a pro-Palestinian activist using the slogan “From the river to the sea” has sparked a debate on free speech in Germany. The 22-year-old defendant faces charges of condoning Hamas attacks by using this politically charged phrase at a protest. The trial has drawn attention to Germany’s legal limits on political expression, with supporters arguing that the slogan is a central expression of the global Palestine solidarity movement. The case highlights the complex legal framework in Germany, where courts have varied interpretations of the slogan. While some officials have…
The German government has taken a bold stand against the spread of hate speech and extremist ideologies by banning the rightwing magazine, Compact. Accused of inciting hatred towards Jews, Muslims, and foreigners while undermining the country’s democratic values, Compact was targeted in dawn raids across four German states. Interior Minister Nancy Faeser emphasized the government’s commitment to combatting rightwing extremism, labeling Compact as a key mouthpiece for dangerous ideologies. The ban sends a clear message that Germany will not tolerate the promotion of violence and discrimination against refugees and migrants. With a circulation of 40,000, Compact has been a platform…