The German government’s Commissioner for LGBTQ+ Affairs, Sophie Koch, has expressed concern over a rise in attacks targeting queer individuals ahead of this weekend’s Christopher Street Day (CSD) celebrations in Cologne. In an interview with the “Rheinische Post” Koch noted a discernible shift in sentiment, observing that “the mood has changed – and not for the better.
Koch highlighted the increasing need for police protection at CSD events, particularly in rural areas, attributing this to a growing climate of hate and escalating incidents of violence against queer people. She described this as “the reality in Germany in 2025.
The Commissioner cautioned against unproductive debates surrounding symbols like rainbow flags, festival tents, or event participation restrictions, urging politicians and society at large to focus instead on substantive issues of safety and legal equality.
Similar concerns were echoed by representatives of the Queere Vielfalt (LSVD) association. Julia Monro, a member of the federal executive board, stated that “the pressure on the queer community is currently growing on various levels”. She emphasized an expectation that a democratic government would take responsibility for the safety and well-being of all citizens.