Rise in “Reichsbürger” Numbers and Ongoing Protests Against Right-wing Extremism in Saxony

In Saxony, the “Reichsbürger” movement, a group that rejects the modern German state, has seen a significant increase in its ranks in 2023. The State Office for the Protection of the Constitution (LfV) estimated approximately 3,000 individuals were affiliated with this scene by year’s end, marking an increase of around 500 compared to the previous year. Notably, 87 of these individuals are classified as right-wing extremists. This information emerged from a response by the Interior Ministry to a query from Left party member of the state parliament, Kerstin Köditz.

Köditz further inquired into the justice department’s handling of “Reichsbürger”-related cases, revealing that in 2023, Saxony’s public prosecutors identified 514 investigations with connections to the movement. Although this figure represents a decrease from 589 cases in 2022, it remains significantly high in a long-term comparison.

A Spectrum of Offenses

The investigations spanned over 80 different criminal charges. Most commonly, cases involved coercion (104 instances), followed by bodily harm (14 cases), incitement of the people (nine cases), extortion (two cases), and manslaughter (one case). Additionally, two instances concerned assaults on law enforcement officers, showcasing the diverse and serious nature of offenses attributed to the “Reichsbürger” movement.

Mobilization Against Right-wing Extremism

Parallel to the rise of the “Reichsbürger” movement, Saxony continues to witness robust demonstrations against right-wing extremism, championing a resilient democracy. Upcoming protests are scheduled in Leipzig and Bautzen, reflecting the community’s dedication to combating right-wing influences and promoting inclusivity.

In Leipzig, the action network “Leipzig Takes a Stand” has organized a rally in the Möckern district to counteract right-wing attempts to instigate fear and hatred. The event is set as a direct response to a regular Monday demonstration, perceived to be infiltrated by right-wing extremists.

Bautzen is preparing for a Sunday event (25th February) aimed at rallying against right-wing ideologies through music, featuring the “Banda Comunale” brass band. Numerous associations, unions, initiatives, and social organizations support this demonstration, intending to reaffirm the values of solidarity, freedom, and human rights that underpin democratic society.

Saxony’s increasing “Reichsbürger” numbers and the persistent demonstrations against right-wing extremism underscore a society in flux, grappling with the challenges of extremism while firmly upholding democratic values. Through legal scrutiny and public mobilization, Saxony exemplifies the multifaceted approach required to counteract right-wing extremism and reinforce the foundations of an open, democratic society.