Right-Wing Extremists in German Security Agencies: A Concerning Trend

Right-wing extremists in security authorities across Germany: Recent findings from Germany’s Federal Office for the Protection of the Constitution (BfV) have shed light on a troubling issue within the country’s security agencies.

The BfV has identified 1,919 confirmed cases of right-wing extremists working in various security authorities across Germany. This revelation comes as part of an ongoing effort to monitor and address extremism within the ranks of those tasked with protecting the public. The majority of these cases, 1,165 to be exact, were found at the federal level, while 754 cases were identified at the state level[1].

Breaking down the numbers further, we see that:

• 339 cases were discovered in the German Armed Forces (Bundeswehr)
• 702 cases were found in the Federal Police
• 124 cases were identified in various state police forces.

These figures are particularly alarming given the critical roles these agencies play in maintaining public safety and national security. The presence of right-wing extremists in such positions of authority raises serious concerns about the potential for abuse of power and the undermining of democratic values.

The BfV’s report emphasizes that these findings represent a small fraction of the total workforce in these agencies. However, even a small number of extremists in such sensitive positions can have significant implications for public trust and the integrity of these institutions.

Right-wing extremists working in various security authorities across Germany – fight against extremists still enduring

In response to these findings, German authorities have stressed the importance of ongoing vigilance and the need for robust screening processes for those entering and serving in security roles. The report serves as a wake-up call for increased efforts to identify and remove individuals with extremist views from positions of power within the security apparatus.

As Germany continues to grapple with the challenge of right-wing extremism in broader society, this report underscores the importance of addressing the issue within its own institutions. The fight against extremism must begin at home, particularly within the very agencies entrusted with safeguarding democracy and the rule of law.

Source: BfV

More information on protection of the constitution in Germany can be found here.