Swastika graffiti targets Die Linke's office ahead of anti-racism event in Germany
Die Linke's district office in Rheinisch-Bergischer Kreis has been targeted with swastika graffiti. The vandalism occurred just days before an anti-racism event planned at the same location. Local party officials have reported the incident to police, linking it to ongoing harassment by far-right groups.
The graffiti, spray-painted on sidewalks near the office, has raised concerns about attempts to intimidate attendees of the upcoming gathering. Party representatives have condemned the act as part of a wider pattern of far-right aggression in the area.
The incident was confirmed by Iwona Winterscheid, chair of the local Die Linke branch. She reported the graffiti to authorities, noting that swastikas had been painted in front of the party's new district office and surrounding areas. The timing coincides with preparations for an anti-racism event scheduled for Saturday, March 21, 2026, from 10 AM to 2 PM.
Before this, members of Linksjugend, the party's youth wing, had already faced harassment. Supporters of the far-right group Der III. Weg were identified as responsible for earlier incidents. Participants in Linksjugend gatherings had previously been confronted by young neo-Nazis, escalating tensions in the region. The upcoming event will feature personal accounts from individuals who have experienced racism. Interactive workshops on combating discrimination will also be held. Organisers have stressed that the event remains open to all, with no registration required and free admission for both youth and adults.
Die Linke has formally filed a police report over the graffiti and related harassment. The party views the vandalism as a deliberate attempt to disrupt their anti-racism initiatives. Authorities are now investigating the incident as part of broader concerns about far-right activity in the area.
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