German far-right barred from holding “Stop Zionism!” demonstration at site of synagogue destroyed by Nazis

Authorities in the northern German city of Braunschweig acted recently to prevent a neo-Nazi group from holding a demonstration at the site of a synagogue destroyed by the Nazis in 1938.

The demonstration, held under the banner “Stop Zionism!”, was promoted on social media by the far-right party Die Rechte with other anti-Zionist and antisemitic slogans. The Party told supporters to gather beside a plaque commemorating the synagogue at a specific time – 19:33-19:45 – that was also symbolic, representing the years of the Third Reich.

Some politicians had called for an outright ban. Christos Pantazis, a state representative of the Centre-left SPD Party described the demonstration as “disgusting and repulsive!” and tweeted: “With this targeted provocation, this micro-party reveals its unconstitutional sentiments and should be forbidden.”

At a meeting last week, city administrators barred the neo-Nazis from gathering at the specific place and time but gave permission for a demonstration elsewhere at a different time. It also banned the use of torches and said coronavirus protocols must be observed.

Less than a month ago, the far-right NPD held a demonstration in Braunschweig, attended by around 50 participants.

Campaign Against Antisemitism has expanded our coverage of antisemitism worldwide. Please contact us if you would like to share feedback or volunteer to assist with this project.