German Civil Society Forms Alliance to Shield Democracy Activists from Far-Right Attacks

In a response to intensifying hostility from far-right groups, more than 80 German organizations have united under the “Together for Democracy” alliance to protect activists, public servants, and civic institutions from threats and violence. The coalition, which includes major labor unions, Christian churches, environmental groups like Greenpeace, and human rights advocates, aims to ensure that no individual is left to face attacks on their democratic engagement alone.

The need for such protection has become increasingly urgent, particularly in eastern Germany. Felix Pankonin, a project director at the Hillersche Villa in Zittau, Saxony, described how dealing with far-right intimidation has become a daily reality. His property has been invaded by AfD lawmakers, his bicycles vandalized, and he has received threats against his animals. Most recently, his partner was physically assaulted.

Similar dangers permeate the work of Keerthana Kuperan at DaMOst, an umbrella organization for migrant groups in eastern Germany. She noted that right-wing extremism has fundamentally altered her organization’s operations, implementing strict security protocols such as prohibiting anyone from staying alone in the office after 6:00 p.m. and requiring security measures for placing posters in rural areas. Kuperan also highlighted the AfD’s tactic of filing parliamentary information requests to delay proceedings and discredit controversial topics.

Miriam Zeller, a Green Party councilwoman and candidate in Saxony-Anhalt, where state elections are scheduled for September 6, reported that hostility toward her family has escalated. Her daughter was excluded from social gatherings, and Zeller herself was falsely labeled a warmonger due to her party’s solidarity with Ukraine. While her status as a civil servant offers some job protection, she acknowledged that many other activists face the very real threat of unemployment should the AfD gain power.

Yasmin Fahimi, president of the German Trade Union Federation (DGB), condemned the AfD’s alleged plans for a comprehensive personnel purge in government agencies, courts, and police forces as unlawful and authoritarian. In preparation, the DGB is training its five million members in constitutional and civil service law to help them resist illegal orders. Fahimi called on the Conference of Interior Ministers to provide clearer guidance and seminars to support public servants.

The alliance also seeks to assist vulnerable communities, including queer individuals who have faced targeted attacks. Andre Lehmann of the LSVD+ civil rights organization pointed to recent disruptions at Pride events across Germany as evidence of the growing threat. While the alliance cannot replace federal funding cuts for democracy projects, Sophie Lampl of Greenpeace emphasized that collective campaigning and public solidarity remain vital tools for justice.

As the election in Saxony-Anhalt approaches, members of the alliance remain resolute. Zeller credited small local networks for their support, while Lehmann vowed to guide communities through the current political challenges. The coalition represents a broad front of German civil society determined to defend democratic norms against rising extremism.