German authorities have initiated a crackdown on the far-right magazine ‘Compact’, described as a central outlet for right-wing extremist ideology, inciting hatred against Jews and immigrants. This action included police raids on the magazine’s premises near Berlin, as well as the homes of its managers and shareholders, who are known to maintain ties with key figures within Germany’s far-right scene. The interior ministry has also banned an affiliated production company as part of these measures. The magazine, known for its provocative content and strong online presence, has been declared a criminal association, making any continued association or support for it a criminal offense.
- German Interior Minister described ‘Compact’ magazine as a central mouthpiece of the right-wing extremist scene, inciting hatred against Jews and immigrants.
- The magazine is known for its provocative covers and conspiracy theories, including depictions of former Chancellor Angela Merkel in a hijab.
- Police conducted raids on the magazine’s premises near Berlin and homes of managers and shareholders with ties to far-right figures.
- Raids also occurred in several states, and an affiliated production company was banned.
- ‘Compact’ has been labeled as a leading media brand within the far-right scene in Germany, pushing anti-immigrant, anti-American, and pro-Russian nationalist ideologies.
- The magazine reportedly sells around 40,000 copies per edition and has a significant online presence, including a YouTube channel with 350,000 subscribers.
- Following the raids, associating with or supporting ‘Compact’ is now a criminal offense in Germany.
- The actions against ‘Compact’ raise questions regarding Germany’s freedom of the press and speech laws, as the country allows for the expression of controversial views that do not incite violence or the violent overthrow of democracy.
- Security services have been monitoring ‘Compact’, concluding that it has crossed the line into promoting violent overthrow fantasies.
- While no arrests were made during the raids, future arrests are possible if activities related to ‘Compact’ continue.
- The crackdown on ‘Compact’ reflects growing concerns about the far right in Germany and its impact on the country’s democracy.
DW News is a global news TV program broadcast by German public state-owned international broadcaster Deutsche Welle (DW).
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