The formation of a new youth wing within the Alternative for Germany (AfD) party ignited widespread protests in Gießen over the weekend, resulting in clashes and injuries to over 50 police officers. According to Hesse’s Interior Minister Roman Poseck, the scale of the demonstrations, with approximately 25,000 individuals participating in 26 counter-protests, highlighted a deeply polarized political climate.
Poseck reported that the injuries sustained by law enforcement ranged from minor wounds due to projectiles and kicks to a broken hand. Fifteen blockades were established, five of which required police intervention to disperse. Disturbingly, one blockade led to a collision involving an ambulance, underlining the disruption caused by the unrest. Reports also surfaced alleging attacks and obstruction of journalists attempting to cover the events.
Following the incidents, authorities apprehended three individuals, documented the identities of 192 more and executed 60 search warrants. Poseck, condemning the violence, asserted its incompatibility with democratic principles, emphasizing that lawbreaking cannot be justified as a means of political expression. He specifically drew attention to an alleged attack on a member of the Bundestag representing the AfD, raising concerns about escalating political intimidation.
The Interior Minister’s remarks targeted the “Widersetzen” alliance, suggesting it fostered a misplaced tolerance for those opposing democracy. While acknowledging the police successfully prevented more severe outcomes and largely maintained order, Poseck highlighted the significant financial burden, estimating the multi-million euro cost of the extensive security operation. The events have reignited a national debate regarding the appropriate response to extremist groups and the limits of permissible protest in a democratic society, with critics questioning whether the police response adequately balanced freedom of assembly with public safety and the protection of essential services.