Altenburg defends itself: counter-protest against right-wing march on Friday!

Altenburg defends itself: counter-protest against right-wing march on Friday!

Today Altenburg has its hands full, as a large march is planned for Friday by the extreme right-wing groups “Free Thuringia” and “Free Saxony” as well as the party “Die Heimat”, formerly known as the NPD. The event starts with a rally at the Marstall and is rounded off with a march through the city center. According to the Altenburger Land Action Alliance for Democracy and Solidarity, which was launched in 2020, they are calling for active participation in the counter-protest in order to send a signal against the increasingly inhumane and anti-democratic ideas.

As already democratteam.org reports, it is the responsibility of every citizen to get involved and stand up for a democratic society. Under the motto “Never again fascism”, the alliance plans to confront the march with non-violent counter-actions. Support also comes from the “Thuringia stands across” initiative, which is involved in mobilization against right-wing extremism.

Now one might ask, what do these developments mean for civil society? If you look at the current social challenges, it becomes clear that the uncertainties and crises of the last few years have not only influenced everyday life, but can also promote extremist attitudes. An article in the Federal Agency for Civic Education highlights that insecurity often promotes nationalist and anti-immigrant tendencies. These connections are examined by various experts who shed light on the psychological mechanisms behind radicalization.

In Altenburg, many people are aware of their responsibility for their city and are gathering to send a strong signal. The participants in the counter-protest represent a wide range of groups within civil society and are united by the conviction to take a stand against the growing extreme right-wing currents. In its calls, the alliance emphasizes that an open, democratic society can only exist if one actively supports its values.

Furthermore, one could say that the perception of social injustice and the ever-increasing burden of inflation and rising costs of living also leads to an increase in dissatisfaction. Loud Altenburg.noblogs.org Surveys show that 51% of respondents feel stressed, 36% are exhausted and 17% feel helpless. These sentiments could provide breeding ground for extremist ideologies that must be combated at all costs.

The Thuringian state government has responded to these challenges and increased funding for democracy projects from 4.75 million euros to over 6 million euros in order to promote civic engagement. This recognition of the need for long-term cooperation and participation is key to strengthening social cohesion and anchoring democratic values.

Overall, it shows that the fight for a just and solidarity-based society is influenced by many factors, from the challenges on the labor market to personal insecurities. When civil society stands together and stands up for its values, as in Altenburg, it is a step in the right direction to counteract extremism and intolerance.