Nationwide protests against right-wing extremism after the AfD success in Saxony-Anhalt

The AfD's success in the state elections in Saxony-Anhalt is causing protests against right-wing extremism across the country. At demonstrations in more than 35 cities, people called for democratic cohesion - including in Munich, Hamburg, Berlin, Magdeburg, Schwerin, Dresden and Leipzig. The events are organized by local groups.

A non-partisan alliance, which includes more than 100 organizations, initiatives and unions, has called for protest against the right.

According to the police, around 13,000 people came to a rally in the capital that, according to the organizers, wanted to send a "signal against division and for a solidarity-based, cosmopolitan city." ARD reporter Alexander Arnö reports on 12,000 participants in downtown Munich. The organizers are expecting around 20,000 people in Hamburg. 20,000 people came to the demonstration “against the AfD and right-wing agitation” in Düsseldorf.

“Democracy does not defend itself. It is not enough to hope that others will take care of it,” said Matthias Lüth from the “Time to Act” alliance, which helped organize the protest.

Hamburg: Demonstrators want AfD ban proceedings

In some places, such as Hamburg, demonstrators are calling for an AfD ban to be examined. The Federal Council should apply for this to the Federal Constitutional Court. Recently, several politicians had brought such a ban into play.

The Hamburg bishop and EKD council chairwoman Kirsten Fehrs, who was at the demo, explained: "I am deeply horrified that something like this is actually possible again. In our country with this history," she said.

Fehrs warned of social coldness that a victory for right-wing extremists would bring. Civil society called on them to stand together resolutely and take a stand. "No to exclusion and hatred. And a clear yes to democracy and the Basic Law."

Düsseldorf: Many families at the demonstration

In North Rhine-Westphalia, thousands also set an example for an open, democratic society. "Düsseldorf is taking a stand" - one of the organizations organizing the protest fears that a strengthening AfD will bring "more street violence by neo-Nazis and angry citizens."

The “Grandmas Against the Right” were among the participants who, according to the police, were peaceful and without counter-demonstrations. On their poster, they postulated with appropriately attached rags and needles: "Only the right hand is knitted." In beautiful weather, numerous families with children joined the protest procession.