Germany: Protests against AfD events in Dortmund, Düsseldorf
Deutsche Welle
February 23, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Thousands of protesters gathered in Dortmund and Düsseldorf to oppose a visit by AfD politician Björn Höcke, a far-right figure tied to Nazi rhetoric, sparking concerns over rising extremism in Germany. In Dortmund, around 3,300 people demonstrated against Höcke’s appearance at the city hall, despite efforts by the mayor to block his speaking engagement. The protest was five times larger than initially expected, reflecting strong public opposition to the AfD's presence.
The AfD, known for its far-right stance, is gaining traction in local politics, holding 18 seats on Dortmund’s council and 10 seats in Düsseldorf. Höcke, a leader of the AfD in Thuringia, has been legally labeled a "fascist" due to his history of using illegal Nazi-era language. His visit to the Externsteine rock formation near Dortmund also drew attention, as it is seen by far-right groups as a symbol of German nationalism tied to the Nazi era.
In Düsseldorf, an even larger protest is anticipated, with over 5,000 people expected to rally against Höcke’s planned speech in Garath district. The event has sparked widespread concern, with local leaders and civic groups uniting under slogans like "No room for fascists in Düsseldorf." Trade unions, charities, tenants' associations, and even football fans from Fortuna Düsseldorf are joining the protest.
These demonstrations highlight growing opposition to far-right politics in Germany. The protests not only reflect public distrust of the AfD but also emphasize the importance of protecting democratic values in the face of rising extremism. As the AfD gains political ground, these events underscore the ongoing struggle between far-right ideologies and mainstream democracy in contemporary Europe.
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Originally published on Deutsche Welle on 2/23/2026