Thousands Protest Against Rightward Shift in German Politics

Demonstrators in Munich rally for democracy and unity following the Bundestag election gains by the far-right AfD.

An estimated 2,500 to 5,000 people gathered in Munich's Odeonsplatz to protest a perceived rightward shift in German politics after the Bundestag election.
The rally, organized by the 'Gemeinsam gegen Rechts' alliance, featured speeches and performances under the slogan 'Now more than ever – we stay loud.'
Protesters criticized the role of divisive, racially charged migration debates in the election campaign and voiced concerns about societal polarization.
The far-right AfD, classified partly as extremist, gained significant support in the February 23 election, securing 19% of votes in Bavaria and 20.8% nationally.
Speakers, including activists and refugees, emphasized the importance of defending democracy, human rights, and unity in the face of rising populism and extremism.