The German government has issued a stern condemnation of the escalating political violence in the country after a member of the European Parliament (MEP) was seriously injured in an attack while campaigning for re-election. The incident underscores growing concerns over the safety and security of politicians in Germany.
Matthias Ecke, a 41-year-old member of the Social Democrats (SPD), was assaulted by a group of four individuals while putting up posters in Dresden, the capital of the eastern state of Saxony. The attack left Ecke with severe injuries, necessitating medical intervention, including a forthcoming operation. Additionally, a 28-year-old campaigner for the Greens was also targeted by the same group, although his injuries were less severe.
In response to the attack, German Interior Minister Nancy Faeser pledged decisive action to combat political violence and enhance protection for democratic forces. Faeser emphasized that the assault on Ecke constituted an assault on democracy itself, calling for swift and robust measures to uphold the rule of law.
European Parliament President Roberta Metsola joined a chorus of European leaders in expressing solidarity with Ecke, denouncing the attack as a heinous act of violence.
The surge in attacks on politicians reflects a troubling trend highlighted by government data, which indicates a doubling of assaults on politicians from parties represented in parliament since 2019. Faeser attributed this rise in violence in part to the escalating verbal hostility of extremists and populists towards democratic politicians.
Far-right extremism, identified as the primary threat to German democracy by the BfV domestic intelligence agency, has further compounded concerns. The growing support for the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) has intensified political polarization, particularly in eastern states like Saxony, Thuringia, and Brandenburg.
Among political parties, the Greens have faced the brunt of the aggression, with attacks on their members increasing sevenfold since 2019. The rising climate of hostility has led to apprehension among party members, with some reconsidering their involvement in political activities due to safety concerns.
In response to the heightened risks, regional Greens parties have implemented safety measures, such as ensuring that information stands are staffed by at least three individuals to enhance security. However, the broader challenge of combating political violence and safeguarding democratic principles remains a pressing issue for German authorities as they confront the growing threat posed by extremism.