Thousands protest against Nazi march in Aachen: Antifascists take over the city

Aachen (Germany) | 18-01-2025

Thousands of antifascists took to the streets of Aachen on Saturday to protest a planned Nazi march. The counter-demonstrations, which included blockades, protest marches, and other actions, managed to delay the far-right demonstration by more than two hours. The organizers of the far-right demonstration initially expected 800 participants, but only a group of approximately 70 people ultimately showed up.

At least, if not more, 5,000 people participated in the counter-demonstrations. These included a human chain, sit-in blockades, and various other protest actions, making it clear that Aachen is a city with no space for neo-Nazis or far-right extremism.

A major blockade, involving up to 1,000 people, temporarily halted the far-right march. It was only after police intervention, using force to break through the blockade, that the far-right demonstrators were able to continue their route via an alternative path.

Widespread opposition amid political tensions

In the lead-up to the demonstrations, more than 42,000 people signed an online petition opposing the planned march, warning that it would attract violent far-right extremists and neo-Nazis from across Germany. The event was seen as a potential threat to queer individuals and people of migrant backgrounds.

These protests in Aachen occur against the backdrop of rising tensions in Germany, as the far-right AfD continues to gain momentum ahead of upcoming elections. However, the large-scale counter-protests in Aachen highlight significant public resistance to far-right ideologies.

Aachen sends a strong message

Although the far-right demonstrators were ultimately able to complete their route, the counter-demonstrators regarded the day as a major victory. “Aachen has shown that there is no place for fascism here,” said a spokesperson for the antifascist alliance.

With thousands of people in the streets and a widespread rejection of neo-Nazi ideology, Aachen has sent a powerful message: no room for hate, no room for fascism. No pasarán!

Ali Selvi | Krasnyi Collective


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