Germany's alliance against the far right

Key Points:

• Individuals advocating for democracy and human rights in eastern Germany face increasing threats and violence from far-right extremists, including physical assaults, vandalism, and intimidation tactics by the Alternative for Germany (AfD) party.
• The Together for Democracy alliance, formed in 2024 and supported by over 80 groups including labor unions and environmental organizations, aims to protect activists and institutions targeted by far-right attacks through legal, financial, and public solidarity measures.
• Trade union leader Yasmin Fahimi emphasized that attempts by the AfD to remove public employees unlawfully would be challenged, and the union is providing constitutional and civil service law training to empower members to defend their rights.
• The alliance also seeks to support marginalized communities such as LGBTQ+ individuals, who face increased hostility and attacks on events like Pride, with organizations like the Queer Diversity Association highlighting the need for coordinated protection and response.
• Activists call for greater involvement of major organizations in rural areas to strengthen local support networks, believing that a unified front can better defend democracy and civil society across Germany.