Massive protests against far-right extremism draw over 200,000 in Munich

On February 8, 2025, significant protests took place across Germany, culminating in a large gathering in Munich. More than 200,000 individuals gathered at Theresienwiese, a well-known public space, to demonstrate against the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party ahead of the upcoming general elections scheduled for February 23, 2025. The march was organized under the slogan 'democracy needs you,' aiming to express opposition against any collaboration with the AfD by mainstream parties like the Christian Democratic Union (CDU). Notably, the protest was peaceful and supported by various activist groups, churches, and local soccer clubs, reflecting widespread public concern over the rising political influence of far-right groups in the country. The protests serve not only as a response to the AfD’s popularity in polls but also as a broader statement against racism and anti-immigrant sentiments. Activists lament that the CDU, led by Friedrich Merz, breached a historical 'firewall' that has traditionally separated mainstream parties from extremist groups. Demonstrators carried banners featuring messages critical of the CDU and its recent proposals that sought support from the AfD for migration policy revisions. Organizers claimed that up to 320,000 people participated, showcasing a significant mobilization against the normalization of far-right ideologies, echoing concerns that have reverberated globally. Similar protests were reported in other cities such as Hanover, where 24,000 people rallied, indicating a nationwide movement against extremism. This movement highlights the population's desire for diversity, human dignity, and democratic values in stark contrast to the ideologies represented by the AfD. The protests also serve to underscore a historical context where post-World War II Germany has largely maintained a consensus among democratic parties to reject collaboration with far-right groups, a principle many see as threatened by recent political developments. Furthermore, activists aim to raise awareness regarding the potential influence of far-right parties beyond German borders, referencing trends observed in other European countries and in the political climate under the administration of then U.S. President Donald Trump. The January protests, particularly the one in Berlin, have ignited public discourse on the implications of the far-right agenda for both domestic and international politics, framing the upcoming elections as a critical juncture for Germany's democratic future.