Mass Protests Erupt in Giessen Against New AfD Youth Group

Demonstrations in Giessen, Germany, have escalated into significant protests against the founding of a new youth group by the far-right political party AfD (Alternative for Germany). As many as 50,000 participants are expected throughout the day, with protests already disrupting traffic at 16 locations around the town.

Early on March 15, 2024, demonstrators set up blockades that heavily impacted traffic on major motorways and roads leading into Giessen. Local police reported that the situation was “active” as officers managed multiple protest sites. In the city center, a bus blocked a roundabout, illustrating the determination of protesters to disrupt the arrival of AfD delegates, who arrived under police protection.

The “Resist” campaign alliance, a coalition of various organizations, confirmed that protests were occurring at key locations. Some demonstrators clashed with police, reportedly throwing stones at officers in one area. Around 300 individuals marched along Marburger Straße, carrying flares and chanting messages of opposition against the AfD.

Numerous organizations participated in the protests, including the influential “Omas gegen Rechts,” Sea-Watch, the Socialist Student Union, and the GEW trade union. Palestinian flags were also visible among the crowd, signaling a diverse array of causes being represented. Suraj Mailitafi, spokesman for the Resist alliance, emphasized the importance of the protests, stating, “We will not allow the next generation of violent fascists to organise in the Hessenhallen.”

Member of the Bundestag, Janine Wissler of Die Linke, attended the protests as a parliamentary observer. She expressed her commitment to opposing the AfD, stating, “The AfD is not a normal party.” Despite the tensions, she noted that the protests remained peaceful, although police indicated that water cannons could be deployed if necessary.

As the protests unfolded, the first participants of the AfD founding congress began arriving in Giessen. These individuals were escorted to the exhibition halls in police vehicles and entered through a side entrance to avoid confrontations. Approximately 1,000 delegates are anticipated to attend the congress, where key decisions will be made regarding the party’s youth statute and the election of an executive board.

Throughout the day, around 30 demonstrations, rallies, and vigils have been registered, organized by groups such as the German Trade Union Confederation, Die Linke, Attac, and others. The police have mobilized up to 6,000 officers from various regions across Germany to manage the situation. One of the primary goals of the demonstrators is to impede the arrival of AfD members and block access to the venue where the congress is being held.

The scale of these protests marks one of the largest anti-fascist mobilizations seen in Germany in recent times, reflecting deep societal divisions regarding the rise of far-right ideologies. As the day progresses, the atmosphere in Giessen remains charged, with thousands standing in opposition to the AfD’s activities.