Dortmund Demonstration Draws Hundreds Amidst Controversy
Dortmund, Germany – A demonstration under the banner Together for Germany
drew approximately 800 participants to the city center on Saturday, April 26, 2025. The event, though, was marked by controversy as members of the “Querdenken” (lateral thinker) movement joined forces with known neo-Nazis, sparking counter-protests and police intervention.
The March and Its Participants
The demonstration commenced in front of the Dortmund U-Tower, a prominent landmark in the city. Participants voiced demands for peace and expressed criticism of the current government. A contingent of around 50 neo-nazis from the “Heimat Dortmund,” formerly associated with the NPD and “The Rights” parties,marched with their own banner.
Among those present were not only young right-wing extremists from groups such as “Young and Strong,” “German Youth,” and “German Elite Youth,” but also notable figures like Sascha Krolzig, publisher of the extremist magazine “NS-Heute.”
Clash with Counter-Protesters
The demonstration was met with resistance from left-wing counter-protesters, who gathered at various locations throughout downtown Dortmund.Before the march even began, police stopped approximately 450 counter-demonstrators at Eisenmarkt/Silberstraße, citing the need to ensure the safety of assembly participants and uninvolved citizens.
According to police reports, one right-wing extremist sustained a head injury after being struck by glass bottles allegedly thrown by individuals from the apparently left spectrum.
Ideologies and Symbols
The demonstration featured a mix of German flags, criticisms of the media and political establishment, and the promotion of conspiracy ideologies. One prominent theme was the Great Reset,
a theory that accuses the World Economic Forum (WEF) of orchestrating a large-scale project of the global political or economic elite
aimed at destroying conventional social structures and establishing a world government.
Police Intervention and Route Blockades
Left-wing demonstrators attempted to disrupt the march by staging sit-down blockades along the route. Police used what they described as simple physical violence
to remove the protesters and prevent clashes between the opposing groups.
Despite the blockades, police managed to guide the “Querdenken” march past the anti-fascist sit-ins, allowing the demonstration to proceed towards its final destination.
Final Rally and Disturbing Gestures
The demonstration culminated in a final rally in front of the town hall on Friedensplatz (Peace Place). Authorities reported that two participants were observed making the “Hitler salute,” a gesture prohibited in Germany. Criminal proceedings have been initiated against those individuals.
The meeting concluded at 4:39 p.m.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What was the main purpose of the demonstration?
The demonstration, under the motto “Together for Germany,” aimed to express demands for peace and criticize the government.
- Who participated in the march?
Participants included members of the “Querdenken” movement, neo-nazis from “Heimat Dortmund,” and various other individuals.
- Were there any counter-protests?
Yes, left-wing counter-demonstrators gathered in downtown Dortmund to protest against the march.
- What actions did the police take?
The police intervened to prevent clashes between demonstrators and counter-protesters, and initiated criminal proceedings against individuals who displayed prohibited gestures.
Did You know?
The “Querdenken” movement gained prominence during the COVID-19 pandemic, advocating against government-imposed restrictions and promoting various conspiracy theories.
Pro Tip
When attending or reporting on demonstrations, it’s crucial to remain objective, verify information from multiple sources, and prioritize personal safety.
See also:
“Together for Germany”: Demo with 1,500 participants on April 26th in dortmund City
Conspiracy myths and neo -Nazis: elevator “NRW awakens” in the city center of Dortmund
No “cross-thinking demo” with “3G” control-the applicant canceled official meeting
