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Berlin Erupts with Demonstration against Hate
Over 100,000 gathered in Berlin on January 25, 2025
Berlin’s “Sea of Light”: More than 100,000 Protest Against Far-Right Extremism
On January 25, 2025, Berlin became the epicenter of a powerful demonstration against the rise of far-right extremism in Germany. Tens of thousands of protesters gathered at the iconic Brandenburg Gate, transforming the historic landmark into a “sea of light” as they illuminated their phones and held up banners denouncing the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party. The protest, organized by groups like Campact, Parents Against the Right, and Fridays for Future, drew an estimated 100,000 participants, with simultaneous rallies in Cologne and Halle attracting tens of thousands more .
The demonstrations came as the AfD launched its election campaign in Halle, where party leader Alice Weidel addressed 4,500 supporters. The timing underscored the urgency of the protests, as Germany prepares for snap elections on February 23, 2025, following the collapse of Chancellor Olaf Scholz’s coalition government .
The Spark: A Knife Attack and Rising Tensions
The protests were fueled by a deadly knife attack in Aschaffenburg earlier in the week, which left a man and a two-year-old boy dead. The suspect, an Afghan national due for deportation, became a focal point for the AfD’s anti-immigrant rhetoric. Weidel seized on the tragedy to push her party’s agenda, calling for stricter migration policies and faster deportations .
This rhetoric has resonated with some voters, propelling the AfD to second place in pre-election polls with 20% support, trailing only the center-right Union bloc led by Friedrich Merz . However, mainstream parties have vowed not to cooperate with the AfD, citing its extremist ideology and controversial policies .
Elon Musk’s Controversial Role
Adding to the tensions was the involvement of Elon Musk, who addressed the AfD rally via video link. The billionaire, a close ally of U.S. President Donald Trump, praised the AfD as “the best hope for Germany” and urged supporters to take pride in their national identity. His comments, which downplayed Germany’s historical guilt, were met with rapturous applause from AfD supporters but sparked outrage among protesters and mainstream leaders .
Musk’s endorsement of the AfD has drawn widespread criticism, with German officials accusing him of meddling in the country’s politics. His recent gesture at Trump’s inauguration, which some likened to a Nazi salute, has further fueled concerns about his alignment with far-right ideologies .
The Protesters’ Message: “Democracy is Good”
At the Brandenburg Gate, protesters carried banners with slogans like “Love instead of hate” and “Democracy is good,” emphasizing their commitment to inclusivity and democratic values. Climate activist Luisa Neubauer of Fridays for Future delivered a powerful speech, warning that “those who fuel racism and attack climate protection are not just campaigning—they are endangering lives” .
The rally also highlighted the global implications of Germany’s election. Protesters linked the rise of the AfD to the policies of the Trump administration, which has emboldened far-right movements worldwide. “This is not just about Germany,” said one protester. “It’s about standing up for democracy everywhere” .
The Road Ahead: A Test for German Democracy
As Germany heads to the polls next month, the protests serve as a stark reminder of the stakes. The AfD’s growing popularity has raised fears of a far-right resurgence, while mainstream parties face accusations of enabling extremism by adopting tougher migration policies. Friedrich Merz, the Union bloc’s candidate for chancellor, has vowed to bar undocumented migrants and step up deportations, a stance that risks alienating moderate voters .
For now, the “sea of light” in Berlin stands as a powerful symbol of resistance. As Christoph Bautz of Campact declared, “The defense of democratic parties against cooperation with the AfD must stand. If Merz seeks a common majority with the AfD, an uprising of decent people will erupt in this country” .
The January 25 protests in Berlin were more than a rally—they were a rallying cry for democracy. As Germany grapples with the rise of far-right extremism, the courage and determination of its citizens offer hope for a brighter future. The world will be watching as Germany votes next month, and the outcome could shape the course of European politics for years to come.
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Read more…
- Los Angeles Times: Thousands Protest AfD in Berlin
- CNN: Elon Musk Backs AfD Amid Protests
- Le Monde: Musk’s Address to AfD Rally
- DW: Thousands March as AfD Campaign Begins
- AP News: Protests Against Far-Right Rise
