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
Contact
- Follow us on Facebook
- Do you want to use one of our images? Vous souhaitez utiliser une de nos images? Check our “catalogue”
- Your interested by one of our exhibitions? Vous êtes intéressé par une de nos expositions? Check our our “Exhibitions” page
- Do you want to support our work? Become a member of our association! Vous voulez soutenir notre travail? Devenez membre de notre ASBL! Check our “Support Us” page