A parliamentary inquiry has revealed a deeply concerning accumulation of legally held firearms among individuals and groups designated as extremist, “Reichsbürger” (citizens of the Reich) and those espousing anti-constitutional ideologies in Germany. The response from the Federal Interior Ministry to the Green Party’s Bundestag faction inquiry, published Friday, indicates that over 4,000 registered firearms are currently held by individuals linked to these groups.
According to the ministry’s data, as of December 31, 2024, 2,996 firearms were registered to individuals classified as right-wing extremists, 932 to “Reichsbürger” and “self-administrators” (a term often used to describe individuals rejecting state authority) and 124 to individuals part of a spectrum deemed “anti-constitutional delegitimization of the state”. While newer data are not yet available, approximately 1,120 right-wing extremists, 357 “Reichsbürger” and “self-administrators” and 37 individuals in the designated spectrum also possessed firearm permits at the same date.
The figures starkly contrast with the previous year, which saw the voluntary relinquishment or revocation of firearm permits from 157 right-wing extremists, 191 “Reichsbürger” and “self-administrators” and 12 individuals associated with delegitimization of the state. This apparent reversal has drawn sharp criticism.
Marcel Emmerich, the Green Party’s domestic policy spokesperson, condemned the situation as a “scandal”. He asserted that individuals actively undermining Germany’s democratic constitutional order should be categorically denied access to firearms. “Verfassungsfeinde” – those who reject the constitution – “must be disarmed consistently” he stated.
Emmerich characterized the existing arsenal as a “significant threat to the rule of law” further criticizing the federal government’s perceived inaction. He pointed to repeated calls for reform from state governments and weapons authorities, urging faster and more decisive disarming measures. “For years, these figures haven’t been decreasing and for years, state governments and weapons authorities have been demanding reforms to ensure faster and more consistent disarming. Yet, the Federal Interior Ministry appears to be passively observing this dangerous trend”. The inquiry highlights a growing political tension surrounding firearm ownership and the increasing scrutiny of individuals and groups deemed a threat to Germany’s democratic foundations.