Police break up protest in Kiel: meeting ends in chaos!

Police break up protest in Kiel: meeting ends in chaos!

In Germany, the debate about freedom of assembly and security remains a hot topic, especially in light of the recent events that took place in both Kiel and Berlin on October 7, 2025. While the police in Kiel had to break up a meeting due to rule violations, in Berlin there were violent clashes during a pro-Palestine demonstration despite a ban.

The police in Kiel intervened on the evening of October 7th and broke up a meeting because violations of existing restrictions were discovered. This meeting was originally registered for Asmus-Bremer-Platz and ran from 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. without any disruptions. The second planned meeting on Vinetaplatz was supposed to start at 5:30 p.m., but was postponed to a later date. A subsequently registered protest “For the right to freedom of assembly and freedom of expression” ultimately attracted around 50 participants who appeared with pro-Palestine flags. When the police intervened, scuffles broke out, resulting in five people being surrounded and two cases being filed for resistance.

Conflicts in Berlin and the restriction of protests

On the same day, the anniversary of the devastating Hamas terrorist attack on Israel, protesters gathered in Berlin to demonstrate against Israeli policies. Despite a ban by the Berlin police, which was issued due to concerns about violent riots, numerous people gathered around the Neptune Fountain. The police were prepared and had a water cannon ready, but it was not used immediately. The mood was tense and several demonstrators ultimately had to be temporarily arrested when they refused to comply with the request to evacuate. Under the slogan “Stop the genocide,” the protest participants were targeted by the police because of their slogans, which were classified as extremist.

Restrictions on the right to demonstrate are an overarching problem in the European Union, particularly in pro-Palestinian and climate-oriented protests. A recent report from Liberties examines the increasing restrictions on the right to peaceful assembly that have been observed in many countries since 2023. While many cities in Germany imposed blanket bans on pro-Palestinian gatherings, courts sometimes found these measures to be illegal. In a climate where the right to protest is continually contested, citizens remain under pressure to express their opinions publicly.

Security situation and further incidents

Back in Kiel, the increase in police presence in the wake of the tense security situation during these protests was also discussed. Officials also had to intervene in other regions, such as Neumünster, due to increased danger. In addition, several traffic accidents and a significant theft in construction site containers were reported in Lübeck.

This day once again showed how sensitive the issues surrounding public prosecutors and freedom of assembly are in Germany. Current events make it clear that the limits of protest are continually being tested, and it remains to be seen how the situation will develop in the coming weeks.