Tens of thousands of Germans mark Holocaust Memorial Day

Tens of thousands of Germans participated in demonstrations across the country on International Holocaust Remembrance Day. Chancellor Olaf Scholz, who had previously joined an anti-far-right march, welcomed the widespread participation in Saturday’s peaceful assembly, with around 100,000 people in Duesseldorf alone. Demonstrations were planned in 300 towns and villages, organized by the alliance “Together against the extreme right.” Placards and banners emphasized the importance of democracy and denounced the far-right AfD party. The protests come amid concerns about rising right-wing extremism, particularly in eastern Germany, where the AfD has significant support. The Holocaust Remembrance Day coincided with the 79th anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz-Birkenau death camp. The demonstrations occurred shortly after revelations that AfD members had discussed mass expulsions of immigrants at a meeting with extremists. The AfD’s growing popularity is a concern, especially ahead of upcoming regional elections in eastern Germany.

Source – CGTN