Germany is currently discussing a surge in attacks on politicians. Interior Minister Faeser promises measures to better protect politically engaged individuals and warns of escalation. Faeser, a member of the SPD, expressed concern about the escalating threats and violence directed towards representatives of all political parties, not just in eastern German states. She emphasized the need to confront these intimidation attempts and attacks, including those targeting AfD representatives.
According to the German government, politicians from various parties have been victims of violence, with the AfD targeted in 86 cases, followed by the Greens in 62 cases, SPD members in 35 cases, the Left party in 20 cases, and CDU politicians in 19 cases. FDP members were victims in 10 cases, while CSU members were targeted twice. Faeser announced that the government will soon amend the reporting rights to better protect the private addresses of local politicians. She stressed the importance of preventing threatening behavior from reaching their doorsteps and reaffirmed her proposal to amend firearms legislation to temporarily remove legal weapons from potentially dangerous individuals.
Recent attacks on politicians have sparked outrage, particularly the assault on Matthias Ecke, the SPD’s lead candidate for the European elections in Saxony. Ecke was severely injured when four young individuals with ties to the far-right scene attacked him while putting up election posters in Dresden. Investigations by WELT AM SONNTAG revealed the suspects’ connections to the extremist movement. This incident highlights the urgency of addressing violent acts against politicians and the need for increased protection measures to ensure their safety.
Faeser emphasized the importance of addressing the escalating violence and threats faced by politicians in Germany, regardless of their political affiliation. She underscored the government’s commitment to enhancing protection measures for local politicians and volunteers, including increased police presence, dedicated contact points for those at risk, and support from the federal police in various situations such as large demonstrations and football matches. Faeser stressed the government’s determination to uphold the rule of law and combat intimidation tactics targeting political figures.
In response to the growing concerns about the safety of politicians, Faeser announced plans to introduce changes to the reporting rights and firearms legislation to better protect individuals at risk of violence. The government’s efforts to enhance security measures and address the root causes of these attacks reflect a commitment to safeguarding democracy and ensuring the safety of all individuals involved in political engagement. The recent incidents of violence against politicians underscore the need for immediate action to address the escalation of threats and attacks in Germany.
