Reports of antifeminist and anti-queer incidents surged in the past year, according to data released by a dedicated reporting center. The organization, operated by the non-profit “Lola for Democracy” and supported by the Federal Ministry for Family Affairs, documented 558 cases of such incidents.
The reported events ranged in severity, from physical assaults and hate campaigns to acts of arson. A significant proportion – 59 incidents – targeted organizations actively working on feminist, queer issues, or violence protection. Events, including gatherings like Christopher Street Day parades, were also frequently affected, with 102 reported incidents occurring at such locations.
The report also highlighted a pattern of attacks against businesses known as safe spaces for queer or feminist communities. These incidents involved property damage, arson and physical assaults on staff.
Approximately 30 percent of reported cases involved digital attacks. These included online networks where material related to sexualized violence against women was shared and discussed.
While acknowledging that the data isn’t necessarily representative of the overall situation, the reporting center suggests the substantial increase in reported incidents compared to the previous year indicates growing awareness and an increased willingness to report antifeminist and anti-queer actions. The center defines antifeminism as a political ideology and strategy opposing gender and sexual diversity and gender equality.