Right-wing extremist youth groups in BW: Alarming radicalization tendencies!

Right-wing extremist youth groups in BW: Alarming radicalization tendencies!

In recent months, the landscape of right-wing extremist youth groups in Germany has changed drastically. The increase in such groups is particularly noticeable in Baden-Württemberg, where organizations such as “Unitas Germanica”, “ Zollern-Jugend Aktiv” and “Störtrupp Süd” are increasingly coming into focus. According to the report by the Federal Office for the Protection of the Constitution, these groups have largely classified themselves as neo-Nazis and primarily recruit young men who are looking for identity and community. Rolf Frankenberger, scientific director at the Institute for Right-Wing Extremism Research, emphasizes that the desire to rebel against adults is a decisive incentive for many young people to turn to these extremist ideologies. Merkur reports that the radicalization of these groups primarily begins online, while real meetings and activities have increased since summer 2024.

The content with which these organizations appeal to young people is something special. Enemies such as Muslims, foreigners and people from the left-wing political spectrum are clearly identified. Particularly noteworthy is the spasm against the LGBTQ community, which some groups see as a “door opener” to the scene. Interior Minister Thomas Strobl reports that there have recently been disruptive actions and counter-demonstrations, such as those against Christopher Street Day. Right-wing extremists are active throughout Baden-Württemberg, especially in rural areas.

Radicalization on the Internet

This significant radicalization of right-wing extremist youth groups is not only observed in Baden-Württemberg. A comprehensive investigation has shown that networking through social media like Twitter and TikTok is worrisome. The spread of extremist content on platforms that are popular with young people is a growing problem. According to Stern, even gaming platforms such as Twitch, where right-wing extremist ideologies are propagated, are affected. This digital radicalization has alarmed the security authorities, who assess the groups' potential for violence to be high.

Security authorities also note that it's not just about content viewed online. Real-world activities, such as group hikes and martial arts training, reflect increasing mobility. In March 2025, for example, torchlight vigils took place in Pforzheim and hikes in Nagold, which were a raid signal for many interested parties. These events not only serve to recruit, but also to strengthen a sense of community among members.

Calls for more prevention

The idea that teachers and local communities need to take action to counter this radicalization is gaining traction. Federal Interior Minister Dobrindt emphasizes that it is important that parents, schools and clubs work more closely together. In a WDR report the need for well-equipped youth work is described as crucial for effective extremism prevention. Professional guidance and support for young people is essential to prevent them from slipping into extreme ideologies.

Attention is also drawn to the required measures to raise awareness in the social environment. The challenge is to find the right balance between trying things out and experiencing limits without paving the way to extremism. Teachers from all over Germany have already raised the alarm and warned against excessive demands in the face of increasing radicalization.

The responsibility for preventing this new youth culture lies not only with the authorities, but with society as a whole. It is clear: there is a need for action and a common agenda for the future.