Dresden Braces for Heightened Security Measures During WWII Remembrance
The city of Dresden has issued a public order effective from 10:00 AM Friday, February 13th, to 11:00 PM Saturday, February 14th, 2026, covering the Altstadt (Old Town), large parts of the Neustadt (New Town), Südvorstadt (South Suburb), several train stations, areas in Altplauen, and the Ostra-Ufer. This heightened security measure is in response to planned gatherings commemorating the anniversary of the city’s destruction during World War II.
A Complex Landscape of Remembrance and Protest
City officials anticipate a significant number of assemblies and demonstrations. As of now, eleven gatherings and processions have been registered for Friday, February 13th, and eight for Saturday, February 14th. Authorities too expect spontaneous events to emerge, requiring day-of-event registration. A key concern is the potential for gatherings promoting a revisionist interpretation of the events of 1945, which are expected to be met with counter-protests.
Restrictions on Public Conduct
The public order imposes a range of restrictions designed to maintain public safety and order. Carrying items that could be used as projectiles – including glasses, bottles, eggs, and stones – is prohibited. The use of weapons, knives, pepper spray, and pyrotechnics is also banned. Specific clothing items associated with extremist groups, such as uniforms, face coverings, all-black attire, and certain types of footwear, are also forbidden.
organized marching in formation, particularly in step with drumming, is prohibited, as is blocking public spaces with flags, banners, or umbrellas. Sound systems are limited to a maximum of 90 decibels.
Large-Scale Events Planned
Right-wing extremist groups have announced a “mourning march” for Saturday, anticipating 1,000 participants, though attendance was more than double that number in 2025.
Counter-protests are being organized by a coalition of 30 initiatives and organizations, collectively known as “Dresden Wi(e)dersetzen” (Dresden Resists), which expects up to 10,000 participants. The Technical University of Dresden is organizing a human chain in the Altstadt on Friday evening, hoping to draw a similar number of participants.
The Ongoing Challenge of Historical Memory
The annual remembrance of the Dresden bombings remains a sensitive and often contested event. The city’s efforts to balance freedom of assembly with the need to prevent the exploitation of the commemoration for extremist purposes highlight the ongoing challenges of navigating historical memory in a democratic society. The events underscore the importance of actively countering historical revisionism and promoting a nuanced understanding of the past.
FAQ
What areas of Dresden are affected by the public order? The restrictions apply to the Altstadt, Neustadt, Südvorstadt, several train stations, areas in Altplauen, and the Ostra-Ufer.
What items are prohibited from being carried in public? Items that could be used as projectiles, weapons, pyrotechnics, and specific clothing items associated with extremist groups are prohibited.
What is the expected attendance for the counter-protests? The coalition “Dresden Wi(e)dersetzen” anticipates up to 10,000 participants, and the Technical University of Dresden hopes for a similar turnout for the human chain.
When does the public order come into effect? The order is effective from 10:00 AM on Friday, February 13th, to 11:00 PM on Saturday, February 14th, 2026.
Where can I find the full details of the public order? You can find the complete document here.
