Violent Extremism on the Rise in Germany, Reports Show
A recent surge in right-wing, racist and anti-Semitic attacks in Germany has raised concerns about the country’s social cohesion and security. According to the Federation of Counselling Centers for Victims of Right-Wing, Racist and Anti-Semitic Violence, a 20% increase in reported incidents was recorded in 2024, with a total of 3,453 cases and 4,681 affected individuals across 12 of Germany’s 16 states.
Racism remains the most common motive behind these attacks, with a 24% increase in racist incidents compared to the previous year, the federation reported. The number of attacks on political opponents also rose by 72%, reaching a five-year high of 542 incidents.
Judith Porath, a member of the federation’s board, emphasized the need for the German government to take concrete political action to combat the growing threat of right-wing extremism. “The fight against right-wing, racist and anti-Semitic violence is crucial for social cohesion and the security of all people living in Germany” she said, calling for a nationwide, inter-ministerial action plan to address the issue.