Schuster: Germany has long downplayed left-wing extremism - Germany's Left-Wing Extremism Crisis Deepens as Minister Demands Action
Saxony's Interior Minister Armin Schuster has raised concerns over the growing threat of left-wing extremism in Germany. The CDU politician criticised the political left for failing to confront violent groups within its ranks. He also welcomed the federal government's recent shift in tone on the issue.
Schuster highlighted the activities of organisations like Rote Hilfe, which he described as a left-wing extremist group supporting violent offenders and undermining the rule of law. Back in 2018, he had already called for its ban, alongside other militant factions such as Antifa-Ost (Hammerbande) and the Vulkangruppen, known for carrying out attacks.
Schuster warned that left-wing extremism has long been underestimated in Germany. While right-wing extremism remains the top priority in Saxony, he stressed that violent left-wing networks—particularly in cities like Leipzig—are becoming more radicalised and interconnected. The state's special task force, Soko Linx, has been targeting these groups, with the Saxony State Criminal Police Office (LKA) reporting multiple successful investigations.
The minister also criticised the handling of third-generation Red Army Faction (RAF) terrorists, including Daniela Klette, Burkhard Garweg, and Ernst-Volker Staub. He argued that the political left has shown little willingness to distance itself from such figures or the broader militant scene. Though Schuster acknowledged the left's pragmatic approach in areas like budget negotiations, he insisted this did not extend to confronting extremism within its own movement.
According to Schuster, there is still no clear effort from the left to build a strong defence against violent factions. He called for a more decisive stance, arguing that extremists continue to exploit political tolerance to justify their actions.
Schuster's remarks underline a persistent challenge for German security authorities. The minister's demand for stricter measures against left-wing extremism comes as investigations into militant groups continue. Meanwhile, the debate over how to address radicalisation—without compromising democratic principles—remains unresolved.
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