The right-wing extremist group “Hammerskins” is facing a legal challenge to a nationwide ban imposed two years ago by then-Federal Interior Minister Nancy Faeser (SPD). Today, the Federal Administrative Court in Leipzig will hear appeals from several “Hammerskins” local groups and individuals contesting the dissolution of the neo-Nazi organization.
Hammerskin Meeting in Milan
Despite the ban in Germany, evidence suggests that German “Hammerskins” members continue to network with far-right extremists across Europe. Photos and videos obtained by the investigative platform “Exif” show dozens of leading “Hammerskins” members from various European countries meeting in Milan in mid-November.
The images, obtained by NDR, included individuals from Mecklenburg-Vorpommern, Berlin, and Rhineland-Palatinate. Some German far-right participants were photographed wearing jackets emblazoned with “Hammerskins Sachsen.” The gathering reportedly involved approximately 100 participants, including a European leadership meeting framed by two right-wing rock concerts. Footage from the concerts shows attendees raising their arms in the Hitler salute during the music.
Federal Interior Ministry Remains Silent
It remains unclear whether German security authorities were aware of the participation of German neo-Nazis in the “Hammerskins” meeting in Milan. The Federal Ministry of the Interior declined to comment on whether the event was known in advance or if any travel bans were issued.
The State Criminal Police Office in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern stated they had no prior knowledge of the meeting. The State Office for the Protection of the Constitution in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern indicated they had no information regarding the event in Milan or any subsequent activities of “Hammerskins Deutschland.” This is not the first such meeting since the ban in Germany; a similar event in Sweden in August 2024 also included participants wearing “Hammerskins Mecklenburg,” “Crew 38 Bremen,” and “Hammerskins Sachsen” attire.
International Neo-Nazi Network
The “Hammerskins” are described as an international neo-Nazi network particularly active in the far-right music scene. In Germany, they organized secret concerts and CD distribution. In September 2023, then-Federal Interior Minister Faeser issued the ban, stating the organization opposed the constitutional order and violated criminal laws, as well as undermining international understanding.
Around 700 police officers searched the homes of 28 leading members across ten federal states. Some locations used for “Hammerskins” events were confiscated. Police in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern reportedly seized suspected weapons and explosives, and investigations are ongoing.
Decision on Ban
The Federal Administrative Court will now determine the legality of the ban. Numerous individuals and regional chapters have filed lawsuits, arguing that a nationwide “Hammerskins Deutschland” organization did not exist and that regional chapters operated autonomously. They also contend there are no national statutes, only a set of rules at the European level. One chapter claims to be a “regional French chapter without any connection to structures in Germany,” according to the court.
The Federal Administrative Court is the court of first and final instance for lawsuits against association bans issued by the Federal Ministry of the Interior. Most recently, the court overturned the ban on the far-right magazine “Compact” in June.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the “Hammerskins” group?
The “Hammerskins” are an international neo-Nazi network active in the far-right music scene, originating in the US in the late 1980s and establishing a presence in Germany in the early 1990s.
Why was the “Hammerskins” group banned in Germany?
The group was banned in September 2023 because it was deemed to oppose the constitutional order, violate criminal laws, and undermine international understanding.
What is happening at the Federal Administrative Court in Leipzig?
The court is hearing appeals from “Hammerskins” members and local groups contesting the legality of the nationwide ban imposed by the Federal Ministry of the Interior.
As the court deliberates, it remains possible that the ban will be upheld, potentially disrupting the group’s activities within Germany. Alternatively, if the ban is overturned, the “Hammerskins” may attempt to reorganize, presenting ongoing challenges for authorities. The outcome of this case could also set a precedent for future bans of extremist organizations.
