A Drop in Hate Crimes Against Refugees in Brandenburg - But Concern Remains High
Reduction in Refugee-Targeted Crimes Identified - Decrease in reported crimes against refugees has been noted so far
Got a good news/bad news situation? Here goes: the number of hate crimes against refugees in Brandenburg has seen a decline during the initial months of the year, going from 87 incidents in Q1 2024 to 42 in Q1 2025. That’s a substantial drop, but let's not dismiss the fact that every single offense is a blatant violation of human rights.
The reduction in hate crimes covers insults, threats, propaganda offenses, property damage, arson, and physical injuries. According to MP Andreas Noack, this decrease might be partly attributed to Brandenburg taking in fewer refugees compared to the previous year. Nevertheless, Noack emphasizes that the numbers are still distressingly high.
Unfortunately, the total number of right-wing motivated crimes in Brandenburg remains concerning, with 796 such offenses registered in Q1 2025. The majority of these crimes are linked to the sharing and use of extremist materials, incitement to hatred, and insults. Furthermore, 19 violent crimes with a right-wing motive have been recorded over the first three months of the year.
In addition, there was a right-wing extremist terror investigation launched by the Federal Prosecutor General in relation to a suspected cell operating in the district of Oberspreewald-Lausitz. Various incidents of hate crimes have also been reported elsewhere in Brandenburg, such as an anti-Semitic attack on a man wearing a kippa in Oranienburg (Oberhavel), and an alleged assault on a dark-skinned man in Bad Saarow (Oder-Spree district).
SPD MP Noack voiced his dismay over the shocking resurgence of hatred, pointing to the violent attack on a demonstration against the right in Bad Freienwalde as proof. In his opinion, Brandenburg must be a secure haven for all, regardless of their origin, skin color, or support for refugees, and must distance itself from right-wing extremist elements in politics.
It’s essential to remember that detailed, authoritative data on right-wing motivated crimes in Brandenburg for Q1 2025 can only be found in official German law enforcement or government publications. These trustworthy sources publish periodic crime and extremism reports that offer a clear picture of the situation. Until such data is made available, our understanding of the scope and direction of right-wing extremist activities in Brandenburg remains limited.
The decline in hate crimes against refugees in Brandenburg, while commendable, is not sufficient to dismiss concerns, as every incident infringes upon fundamental human rights. Despite the decrease, MP Andreas Noack acknowledges that the numbers remain troubling, echoing his concern that Brandenburg must distance itself from right-wing extremist elements in politics, a sentiment expressed in the realm of community policy and general-news discussions. Furthermore, the ongoing investigations into right-wing extremist terror cells and the frequent reporting of hate crimes highlight the need for vigilance and robust employment policies to combat these incidents. As politics plays a crucial role in shaping societal attitudes, it is vital to address the root causes of these crimes and work towards a more inclusive and tolerant society.
