On March 22, 2025, a right-wing extremist demonstration planned to march through the streets of Berlin-Friedrichshain came to an abrupt halt, punctuated by fierce counter-protests. Initially designed as a significant gathering under the banner "For Law and Order. Against Left-Wing Extremism and Politically Motivated Violence," the demonstration was organized by the Allianz für Deutschland, drawing attention to ongoing tensions surrounding extremist politics in the region.
Despite the organizer's initial claims of attracting 1,200 participants, only about 850 right-wing extremists participated at the Ostkreuz S-Bahn station. The crowd initially appeared small, growing larger only slightly throughout the afternoon. While participants attempted to follow their planned route, which would take them past notable leftist strongholds such as Frankfurter Tor and Rigaer Straße, they were met with overwhelming resistance.
The demonstration was critically countered by broad protests organized by leftist groups, with attendance estimates reaching around 2,000 demonstrators. As tensions built, the police found themselves grappling to maintain order. The scale of the counter-protests was unprecedented, leading to multiple clashes and the formation of a series of barricades to prevent the right-wing group from advancing.
Benjamin Jendro, a spokesperson for the Police Union (GdP), reflected on the challenges of managing such protests: "Our democracy must endure even when Nazis march through the streets, as long as it is done within the framework of democratic law." This perspective underscores the complex balance police must maintain in such charged atmospheres.
The march itself struggled to find its footing; it registered substantial delays, culminating in the assembly's leader deciding to dissolve the protest after only about four hours. The decision was made shortly before 5 PM, as the atmosphere became increasingly fraught due to the proximity of the counter-demonstrators.
During the morning and early afternoon, police recorded over 40 arrests associated primarily with the right-wing rally. Many of those arrested faced charges related to displaying symbols of unconstitutional organizations or failing to comply with masking regulations. Instances of protesters exhibiting Nazi salutes were noted, further complicating the police's intervention measures.
Police employed significant manpower in handling the situation, deploying around 1,500 officers to monitor and manage the protests. They received bolstered support from teams arriving from Bremen and Bavaria, reflecting the urgent need for a concerted effort to maintain public safety amidst rising tensions.
As the right-wing extremists attempted to rally and push through police checkpoints, confrontations ensued. Direct confrontations and scuffles between police and protestors became increasingly common throughout the day. Officers employed pepper spray to disperse aggressive groups attempting to breach barriers and gain access to the demonstration route.
This event represents only the latest chapter in a series of extremist demonstrations that have crested in Berlin since late 2024. Previously, less than two months ago, a demonstration of around 150 neo-Nazis made headlines, and back in December 2024, merely 60 participated. The evident increase in crowd size in March suggests either a resurgence or more coordinated mobilization efforts from far-right factions, approaching these demonstrations with altered tactics and increased visibility.
As the situation unfolded at the Ostkreuz S-Bahn station, local onlookers and journalists observed the tense objectivity of the right-wing organizers who appeared rattled by the disruptions. Rising tensions prompted statements from officials, including the assessment that such events necessitate ongoing scrutiny. Another police spokesperson noted, "We protect neither the content of the assembly nor its themes, but firmly uphold the right to assembly within the bounds of law. Ultimately, our primary concern is public safety."
