Berlin’s annual Christopher Street Day (CSD) parade drew hundreds of thousands of participants on Saturday, marking a vibrant display of LGBTQ+ pride and solidarity. While an exact headcount remained unconfirmed until evening, estimates previously suggested the event could attract up to a million people over the years.
Police deployed a significant presence throughout the day and were actively engaged in managing various incidents. A counter-demonstration, registered by individuals associated with neo-Nazi groups, took place near Alexanderplatz. Six individuals, including the registered organizer, were arrested in connection with the demonstration. Proceedings have been initiated for offenses including insult, the display of symbols associated with unconstitutional organizations and violations of explosives laws. Approximately 40 to 60 people attended the registered counter-demonstration, despite a registration for 400.
Later in the evening, tensions arose during a separate march held in Kreuzberg, which saw attendance of around 10,000 people, including approximately 800 individuals expressing pro-Palestinian views. Reports indicate repeated instances of antisemitic slogans being chanted during the march, leading to arrests. Following the arrests, demonstrators threw paint-filled bags at police officers, prompting the police to dissolve the demonstration.