In Berlin-Friedrichshain today, approximately 1,200 right-wing extremists, predominantly Neonazis, prepared to march through a district renowned for its leftist culture. With around 1,500 police officers, including reinforcements from Bavaria and Bremen, present to maintain order, both sides are tense as multiple counter-demonstrations loom.
The assembly began with over 100 Neonazis gathering at S-Bahnhof Ostkreuz at 1 PM for their event, titled “Für Recht und Ordnung. Gegen Linksextremismus und politisch motivierte Gewalt” (For Law and Order. Against Left-Wing Extremism and Politically Motivated Violence). Organisers anticipate far more participation than previous marches, which had a mere 150 on February 22 and 60 in December.
Counter-demonstrations have been organised, drawing more than 2,000 participants across at least 10 events in opposition. Berlin police spokesperson Florian Nath emphasised in a video message on platform X that policing is about ensuring “freedom of assembly” rather than endorsing the event’s ideology, urging peace amidst potential chaos.
The march will navigate prominent spots such as Frankfurter Tor and the iconic Rigaer Straße, a bastion of left-wing activism and a potential flashpoint for conflict. Historical patterns indicate that right-wing gatherings often result in clashes, with notable violence occurring in December.
The right-wing group intended to march freely down Rigaer Straße, but police constraints aim to lessen friction. Right-wing youth factions, commonly affiliated with neo-Nazi movements, are fuelling the controversy. Demonstration organiser Ferhat Sentürk previously served as an AfD local politician and seeks to cultivate a “civil” appearance for the rallies.
Kranz, a musician from the controversial right-wing band Kategorie C, will perform, spotlighting the ideology intertwined with music at the event, which remains within legal limits unless it inclines towards hate speech. In response, a counter-rally will occur at the Technoclub About Blank, featuring anti-fascist activists trying to overpower the right-wing march with music and unity chants.
Despite police efforts to manage the situation, fears of violence are palpable, with local residents and business owners expressing concerns about the blustery ideological clash. Alone, the police force is strained, managing the challenge gracefully as they oversee two opposing factions assembled closely.
Tensions escalate in Berlin-Friedrichshain as 1,200 right-wing extremists, primarily Neonazis, prepare to march through a left-leaning district. With over 1,500 police ensuring order and numerous counter-demonstrations planned, the atmosphere is charged. The gathering began at S-Bahnhof Ostkreuz, with heightened concerns over potential violence and public disorder looming over today’s events.
As tensions mount in Berlin-Friedrichshain with the convergence of right-wing extremists and anti-fascist demonstrators, citizens and authorities hold their breath. The presence of police, counter-protests, and the strategic handling of the day’s events highlights an ongoing societal struggle. Amidst this cultural battleground, the dynamic between these opposing ideologies underscores the urgent need for cohesive dialogue and peaceful assembly.
Original Source: evrimagaci.org
