Berlin saw multiple right-wing demonstrations on Saturday, drawing a response from anti-fascist activists. Singer Xavier Naidoo was among those who mobilized supporters to gather at the Siegessäule, where he has recently publicly promoted conspiracy theories. Although 10,000 participants were registered, approximately 500 people attended. The demonstration’s stated aim was “Transparency, the Rule of Law and Protection of Minors,” with a call for “clarification in the context of possible German connections in the international Epstein complex.”
Obscure conspiracy ideologies, some echoing antisemitic ritual murder legends from the 12th century, were voiced at the Siegessäule. One speaker claimed that intimate care of children in daycare centers was a “perfect preparation for pedophilia.” Another, identifying as a psychotherapist, said that those affected had reported “practices reaching as far as cannibalism.” A member of the audience expressed a belief that human “dried meat” was present in salami and other processed foods. Naidoo previously made similar claims at a demonstration near the Chancellery in Berlin, referencing “people eaters” and “embryonic spices” in potato chips.
Extremist Michelle Gollan was also a speaker, stating she was unconcerned with being labeled “right-wing extremist” in the media, and receiving applause. Regarding the “Epstein complex,” Gollan said, “Once you look into it, you see how deep the swamp is.” Another speaker argued the issue wasn’t “left or right,” but a fight against “the elites,” and when asking the crowd who identified as right-wing, almost everyone raised their arms.
The gathering attracted media aligned with the extreme right, including Compact and the AUF1 channel, as well as numerous streamers.
The atmosphere was emotionally charged, with some in the audience moved to tears as a woman shared her experiences with abuse. Notably, some attendees stated they had themselves been victims of sexual abuse as children.
Neonazis at Potsdamer Platz and in Marzahn
No counter-protests were present at the Siegessäule. Approximately 200 anti-fascist activists gathered at Potsdamer Platz to protest a march by neonazis, who numbered around 40 and chanted “Freedom for all political prisoners,” referencing NSU supporter Ralph Wohlleben and Holocaust denier Ursula Haverbeck.
Neonazis Thomas Wulff and Christian Worch were also present, leading the demonstration. Worch, a convicted individual, was celebrating his 70th birthday.
Despite the planned march, the neonazis initially stood for over an hour at Potsdamer Platz before proceeding through Mitte. One individual hinted at performing a Hitler salute for a camera, while another displayed a tattoo of an SS skull. Some participants traveled from Saxony and Brandenburg, and some appeared to be under the age of 16. Members of the groups “Deutsche Jugend voran” and “Junge Nationalisten” were also present.
In Marzahn, approximately 160 neonazis marched, mobilized by the far-right party “Der Dritte Weg,” which last year used the slogan “Our Alternative is Revolution.” Antifascist counter-protests also took place in Marzahn.
Notably, while these demonstrations occurred, numerous people gathered at the Brandenburg Gate to call for a ban on the AfD party.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the stated purpose of the demonstration at the Siegessäule?
The demonstration at the Siegessäule was officially stated to be about “Transparency, the Rule of Law and Protection of Minors,” and called for “clarification in the context of possible German connections in the international Epstein complex.”
Who were some of the individuals present at the demonstrations?
Xavier Naidoo, Michelle Gollan, NSU supporter Ralph Wohlleben, Holocaust denier Ursula Haverbeck, and neonazis Thomas Wulff and Christian Worch were among those present at the demonstrations.
Where did the demonstrations take place?
Demonstrations took place at the Siegessäule, Potsdamer Platz, and in Marzahn, all in Berlin.
Given the range of ideologies and individuals involved in these demonstrations, what impact might this have on the broader political landscape in Germany?
