Pegida Ends Street Protests After a Decade
The controversial movement concludes its demonstrations amid declining support and leadership challenges.
- Pegida, known for its anti-Islam stance, is ceasing street protests after ten years, citing health and financial issues of its leader, Lutz Bachmann.
- The movement, which began in Dresden in 2014, saw its peak participation in 2015 and 2016 but has since diminished in influence.
- In 2021, the German domestic intelligence agency classified Pegida as an extremist organization, noting its radical shift over the years.
- Pegida's rhetoric and protests have been linked to a rise in right-wing extremism, influencing groups like the AfD and sparking significant counter-protests.
- Despite ending street protests, Pegida plans to continue its activities through new media formats such as podcasts and radio broadcasts.