Thousands took to the streets of Hamburg on February 22, 2025, to protest against right-wing extremism one day before Germany's federal elections. Organized under the banner "Wir lassen uns nicht spalten: Hamburg wählt Zusammenhalt" (We Will Not Be Divided: Hamburg Votes for Solidarity), the demonstrations attracted significant attention and participation.
The primary march commenced at Willy-Brandt-Straße, led by multiple groups including Fridays for Future, the German Trade Union Confederation (DGB), the Neuengamme Concentration Camp Memorial, and the Turkish Community in Hamburg. Participants carried placards declaring slogans such as "Hass ist keine Alternative!" (Hatred is no alternative!) and "Keine Toleranz für Intoleranz" (No tolerance for intolerance), as they voiced their collective opposition to right-wing ideologies.
With initial expectations of up to 65,000 demonstrators, the police's assessment noted fewer attendees, estimating participation at lower five-digit numbers. For safety, law enforcement agencies organized substantial measures to secure the event, closing off major streets to prevent vehicles from entering the crowd.
Simultaneously, another event known as the "Demo-Rave" took place, where approximately 1,000 participants joined the demonstrators later, culminating together along the Mönckebergstraße. The merging of these two events illustrated the blending of serious political messaging with community celebration, featuring DJs, trucks, and vibrant music.
After assembling for the march, participants took part in a moment of silence for the victims of recent violence linked to right-wing extremists, as speaker Tanja Chawla from the DGB encouraged solidarity. Her sentiments were echoed by others throughout the day's events, reinforcing the message of unity against fascism.
Notably, local musician Jan Delay, performing as DJ Flashdance, electrified the atmosphere during the "Demo-Rave," contributing to the movement's visibility and appeal. Demonstrators enjoyed the music, creating an energetic ambiance amid serious discussions about democracy's future and combating right-wing extremism.
The overall demonstrations revolved around creating substantial public pressure on political parties, particularly the AfD, which faces criticism for its policies and rhetoric. Several other counter-demonstrations were scheduled as the AfD held its campaign finale at the Friedrich-Ebert-Halle, drawing responses from organized protesters committed to challenging their platform.
Throughout the day, Hamburg served as the epicenter of resistance against the alarming rise of right-leaning politics across the country. Protesters reflected on the significant challenge posed by the AfD and similar groups, rallying support from various segments of society. Though the turnout was somewhat disappointing compared to initial expectations, the motivation and resilience among participants remained palpable.
The vibrant visual presence of the demonstrations, combined with thoughtful speeches and songs about democracy, aimed to galvanize voters before heading to the polls. The overall themes emphasized the importance of safeguarding democracy, showcasing Hamburg as a city unwaveringly committed to opposing intolerance and hate.
Authorities anticipated potential tensions due to the presence of counter-protests around the AfD's event, which had prompted police to prepare with water cannons and reinforcements to maintain order throughout the city.
The day concluded with calls for continued engagement from citizens, urging them to exercise their rights and participate fully in the upcoming elections to counter the threat of right-wing politics. The crowd's harmony and resolve underscored the collective aspiration for equality, openness, and solidarity.
With the federal elections on February 23 looming, the demonstrations stood as a preemptive stance against any electoral gains by right-wing factions, encapsulating the indomitable spirit of Hamburg's resistance to extremism.