Tens of thousands of people across Germany participated in protests on Holocaust Memorial Day to show their opposition to the far-right party, Alternative for Germany (AfD), and to express support for democracy. Signage and slogans at the protests reflected a strong message opposing the rise of the far-right and emphasizing the importance of democracy. Holocaust Memorial Day holds deep significance in Germany and the day’s vow of “Never again” resonated amid concerns of growing antisemitism and the likelihood of the far-right party gaining more political power through state elections. The demonstrations were widespread, with millions gathering across the country to denounce the AfD’s ideas and associations with extremist elements. The news of the party’s officials meeting with neo-Nazis and far-right figures has resulted in a dent in the party’s popularity and has prompted public figures to distance themselves from the party. The concern over the far-right has also grown in neighboring Austria, where pro-democracy rallies have been held. Revelations about the support of respected members of society for extreme right groups have prompted comparisons to the Weimar Republic, the fragile democracy of the 1920s and 1930s that gave rise to the Nazis. Germany’s defense minister, Boris Pistorius, warned that the AfD’s intentions could bring Germany back to a time of racial madness and injustice. The spread of anti-far-right protests and the reevaluation of the AfD’s influence in Germany emphasize the importance of standing against antisemitism, racism, and misanthropy while advocating for the preservation of democracy.
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Germans Unite Against Far Right and for Democracy on Holocaust Memorial Day
