Remembering the Victims of Hanau - Wulff Calls for Diversity - Hanau attack victims remembered six years later as families demand justice
Six years after the Hanau racist attack, relatives and officials gathered to remember the victims. On 19 February 2020, far-right extremist Tobias R. killed nine people with migrant backgrounds in the city. The memorial events included a silent vigil and calls for stronger action against racism in Germany.
The Kurtović family, who lost their son Hamza in the attack, continue to demand justice. Their criticism of the investigation and legal process remains unresolved, particularly over failures at the second crime scene.
At the memorial ceremony, former German President Christian Wulff urged a firm stance in defence of diversity and tolerance. He condemned the country's habit of ignoring discrimination, calling for greater accountability.
Hamza Kurtović's parents, Armin and Dijana, joined friends and relatives to honour his memory. In November 2023, they filed a complaint with Germany's Federal Constitutional Court, challenging the handling of their son's death. The family has long criticised authorities for the locked emergency exit at the second crime scene, which they believe worsened the tragedy.
Representatives from Hesse, Hanau, and the federal government attended a silent vigil. The attack, carried out by Tobias R., sparked wider awareness of racist violence in Germany. Protests, memorials, and initiatives like the Demokratie leben! programme followed. Yet reports from the BKA and the Amadeu Antonio Foundation show over 20,000 racist crimes in 2024 alone, highlighting persistent divisions and concerns over weak enforcement.
The anniversary events underscored ongoing demands for justice and reform. The Kurtović family's legal fight continues, while officials face pressure to address failures in the investigation. Despite increased public awareness, the high number of racist incidents signals unresolved challenges in combating extremism.
