Demonstrators took to the streets of Berlin on Sunday, protesting against the recent decision by Germany’s conservative party to engage with far-right factions ahead of the upcoming legislative elections. The protest, which drew a crowd of at least 160,000 according to police estimates, reflects growing concerns over the normalization of extremist politics in the country.
The rally was organized in response to the conservatives’ overtures to far-right parties, a move that many view as a dangerous shift in the political landscape. Protesters expressed their discontent with placards and chants, calling for a rejection of far-right ideologies and a commitment to democratic values.
Among those addressing the crowd was Armin Steinbach, a prominent legal scholar and professor at HEC Paris, who emphasized the importance of maintaining a clear boundary between mainstream politics and extremist views. Steinbach, who also holds positions at the London School of Economics and the think tank Bruegel in Brussels, argued that the rise of populist parties poses a significant challenge to established democratic frameworks.
The backdrop of the protest comes as Germany prepares for crucial elections, with many voters feeling disillusioned by traditional parties. The conservatives’ strategy to reach out to far-right groups has sparked fears that such alliances could undermine the democratic fabric of the nation. Observers note that this trend is not isolated to Germany; similar movements are gaining traction across Europe, where populist parties are increasingly influencing mainstream political discourse.
As the electoral date approaches, the implications of these developments will be closely watched, both within Germany and across the continent. The protest in Berlin serves as a clear signal that a significant portion of the population is willing to mobilize against what they perceive as a threat to democracy and social cohesion.