Counter-demonstrations against right-wing extremism: unity for democracy in Germany

Counter-demonstrations against right-wing extremism: unity for democracy in Germany

Today, on October 28, 2025, numerous demonstrations against right-wing extremist views, hatred and anti-Semitism are on the agenda in Germany. These mobilizations are part of the broader commitment of many citizens to send a strong signal for democracy and tolerance. Against the backdrop of the upcoming state elections in Baden-Württemberg and Rhineland-Palatinate in March 2026 and in Saxony-Anhalt and Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania in September 2026, current surveys show an alarming support for the AfD of 38% in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania. News.de reports about it.

The educational work about anti-Semitism and the role of the AfD is of central importance. An analysis by the Independent Anti-Semitism Expert Group of the German Bundestag shows that the AfD has the biggest anti-Semitism problem among the parties represented in the Bundestag. While the party itself focuses on the fact that anti-Semitism mainly comes from refugees and Muslims, the problem is often not discussed within its own party. The former federal chairwoman Frauke Petry incorrectly described the AfD as a “political guarantor of Jewish life”. This is in stark contrast to the statements of leading figures in the Jewish community, who view the AfD as unelectable for Jewish people , according to the bpb.

Demonstrations in several federal states

In October, numerous protests were organized in various federal states. These actions range from vigils to large rallies. In North Rhine-Westphalia, for example, a vigil for human rights took place in Bonn on October 1st, followed by further actions in other cities. In Saxony, citizens demonstrated in Dresden on October 3rd under the motto “No unity with Nazis and racists”. Such initiatives are intended to send a clear signal against the AfD's agitation and illustrate the broad public rejection of its ideology , reports News.de.

Philipp Ruch, a protagonist in the criticism of the AfD, emphasizes that the rise of the party does not correspond to classic ideas about fascism. He warns of the threat of violence posed by the AfD and sees mobilization against this dangerous current as a necessity in order to protect democracy. In his latest book, he draws parallels to the political situation in the Weimar Republic and highlights that the AfD's current rise has been accompanied by a dramatic increase in support of up to 27 percent, making it stronger than the Nazi Party in 1930 , explains Friday.

Looking into the future

The coming months could be decisive in determining the extent to which civil society succeeds in defending itself against the growing populist and extremist currents. The planned online events and the nationwide demonstrations help to mobilize the population and create awareness of the dangers posed by right-wing ideologies. What is particularly noteworthy is that there is also a great commitment among German youth to protest against the AfD and its views.

One clear message is clear: Society must remain vigilant and speak out against all forms of anti-Semitism and right-wing extremism in order to preserve democratic values ​​in Germany. Only by working together can we prevent ideologies of fear and hate from undermining social coexistence.