A Drop in Refugee-Related Crimes, but Concerns Over Far-Right Extremism Remain
Decline in Criminal Acts Targeting Refugees Observed to Date - Decline in Offenses Targeting Refugees
Let's get straight to the point: the number of crimes against refugees and refugee accommodations in Brandenburg has seen a significant decrease from January to March 2025, going from 87 offenses in the same period last year to 42 this year.
The majority of these incidents involve insults, threats, propaganda, property damage, arson, and bodily injuries - all linked to extremist ideologies.
MP Andreas Noack stated, "While the reduction in crimes is promising, the numbers are still too high, and each individual act remains a serious violation of human rights." It's essential to note that Brandenburg has taken in significantly fewer refugees this year compared to the previous one.
Right-wing motivated crimes in Brandenburg have been deemed "worrying" by Mr. Noack. According to the state government's responses, a total of 796 such crimes were registered in the first quarter of 2025. The largest group of offenses includes the distribution and use of propaganda materials and symbols of unconstitutional and terrorist organizations, along with incitement to hatred and insults.
There were 19 cases of right-wing extremist violent crimes recorded in the first quarter, and federal authorities are investigating a suspected right-wing extremist terrorist cell.
Sadly, instances of anti-Semitic behavior and hate crimes against people of color have surfaced in several regions. For example, in Oranienburg, a man wearing a kippa (traditional Jewish head covering) was targeted, knocked to the ground in an anti-Semitic incident. Elsewhere, two individuals allegedly struck a dark-skinned man's head against a bus stop's glass in Bad Saarow.
In Senftenberg, unknown assailants attacked an alternative youth club with stones. SPD politician Noack has called the shocking extent of hatred against those with different beliefs into question, highlighting the recent violent acts in Bad Freienwalde.
Brandenburg aims to remain a beacon of safety for everyone, regardless of their origin, skin color, or stance on refugee issues. Mr. Noack emphasized the need for a clear distance from far-right extremist forces within the political landscape.
Although there's been a decrease in refugee-related crimes, extremist groups' presence and activities continue to pose serious concerns in Brandenburg. Actions against these extremist groups have made considerable strides in combating organized far-right terrorism, which may explain the reduction in crimes against refugees in 2025 compared to the increase seen in 2024. However, vigilance and continued efforts are necessary to maintain a safe and peaceful environment for all.
- As concerns over far-right extremism persist, Brandenburg's political leaders have reaffirmed their commitment to uphold the community policy, ensuring it provides a clear distance from extremist forces and remains a haven for individuals of all origins and beliefs.
- Arising from the general-news of rising right-wing motivated crimes, ongoing discussions revolve around the employment policy, focusing on the need for service providers and law enforcement to urgently address and combat the underlying causes of hate crimes, including crime-and-justice issues linked to extremist ideologies.
