Photo by Samuel Hagger on Unsplash
Extremism in Germany Reaches Unprecedented Levels in 2025
The German domestic intelligence agency, Bundesamt für Verfassungsschutz, reported in its 2025 annual report that the number of extremist individuals in Germany has reached an all-time high. The total number of persons with extremist affiliations, especially right-wing extremists, rose significantly compared to previous years. The report highlights right-wing extremism as the “greatest threat” to Germany’s free democratic constitutional order, with a marked increase in associated violent and criminal acts. Despite the growing numbers, no new extremist groups were added to the watch list in 2025 [Source 1].
Significant Rise in Right-Wing Extremist Numbers and Violence
According to the report, the right-wing extremist population increased by about 9,650 individuals from 40,600 in 2023 to approximately 50,250 in 2024 after adjusting for multiple memberships. The majority of right-wing extremists are affiliated with or linked to the Alternative für Deutschland (AfD) party, whose membership grew to roughly 70,000 members. The intelligence agency classifies the AfD as a “confirmed right-wing extremist” organization. Reports indicate that this rise in extremist numbers correlates with growing violent and criminal activity, which saw a 47.4% increase in right-wing extremist offenses, peaking at 37,835 incidents in 2024. Notably, right-wing extremist violent acts rose by about 11.6% in the same period [Source 7][Source 8].
The political developments in regional states such as Saxony-Anhalt, where the AfD has prospects of entering government after the September 2025 elections, contribute to concerns over security, particularly regarding the possibility of an AfD-affiliated interior minister. German officials have warned that this could constitute a significant security risk [Source 1].
Linke Extremism and Other Threats Also on the Rise
Besides right-wing extremism, left-wing extremist numbers also increased slightly, rising from about 37,000 in 2023 to approximately 38,000 in 2024, according to official data. The Verfassungsschutz observes an overall growing potential for politically motivated extremism across the spectrum [Source 6].
Impact on Expats and International Communities in Germany
For expats, international students, and foreign workers in Germany, the rise in extremist activities can affect personal security and social cohesion. The increase in politically motivated violence may heighten concerns in certain regions, especially where political shifts could empower extremist-linked parties. Expats should remain informed about local political developments and maintain awareness of security advisories issued by German authorities and their embassies. Moreover, given the rising trend in extremist activity, expats might consider reviewing their personal security measures and legal rights relating to public safety and police engagement.
Authorities emphasize that existing surveillance and security institutions remain capable of managing these threats, but the evolving landscape calls for vigilance. No new extremist groups have been identified for observation, indicating the danger comes mainly from within already known entities [Source 1].
Further information can be found in the official Verfassungsschutz 2025 annual report available via Tagesschau.de at https://www.tagesschau.de/inland/innenpolitik/verfassungsschutz-bericht-extremismus-100.html [Source 1].
