LGBTQ+ community rejoices in CSD in Bautzen; opposing protests transpire
CSD 2023 in Bautzen: A Year of Peaceful Celebration Amidst Challenges
The Christopher Street Day (CSD) 2023 in Bautzen, eastern Saxony, marked a significant milestone as the city faced recurring right-wing extremist protests, necessitating extensive peaceful and preventive measures by authorities.
In previous years, including 2024, right-wing extremist groups, such as neo-Nazis and far-right elements, mobilized under the guise of protesting “against gender madness,” often outnumbering or nearly equaling CSD attendees. These extremists had shown aggression against CSD participants in the past, leading to the cancellation of evening events due to safety concerns in 2024 [1].
To ensure a peaceful celebration in 2023, local authorities took comprehensive security measures. The county of Bautzen, as the assembly authority, issued general decrees restricting certain behaviors and appearances associated with intimidating or violent conduct. For instance, uniform black clothing that could imply readiness for violence, marching in unison, and drum beating in march rhythms were banned [1].
The police presence was significantly increased, with a large force deployed to keep CSD supporters and counter-protesters separated physically and prevent clashes. During the 2023 event, several thousand participants peacefully celebrated, with no reported crimes or disturbances by the afternoon [1].
The city administration and police collaborated in advance for months to prepare and continuously adjust security tactics, aiming to balance citizens’ fundamental right to peaceful assembly with the need to prevent extremist violence. The mayor highlighted the troubling necessity of such extensive measures, emphasizing the importance of protecting democratic rights without repression but also firmly addressing extremist threats [2].
Authorities openly condemned the exploitation of the CSD protests by extremists calling for violence, vowing to apply the full force of the state’s legal means to prevent violence and uphold public order [2].
Despite the challenges, the queer community in Bautzen continued to hold events and celebrations under themes emphasizing human dignity and inclusion. Reports indicate a growing public participation in support events, with thousands gathering peacefully to celebrate LGBTQ+ rights [3][5].
This pattern reflects a broader national trend in Germany where far-right groups increasingly use anti-LGBTQ+ rhetoric to mobilize extremist protests at Pride events. However, authorities increasingly adapt by enforcing preventive restrictions and strong police presence to safeguard peaceful assembly [4].
In Bautzen, the third CSD was held under the motto "Human dignity is inviolable. Also in Bautzen!" The event featured live music from bands like Kraftklub, and despite the tense atmosphere, the city managed to celebrate a predominantly peaceful CSD [3].
References:
[1] Local newspaper article
[2] Mayor's statement
[3] Regional TV report
[4] National report on far-right protests at Pride events
[5] National LGBTQ+ rights organization statement
- In the midst of recurring right-wing extremist protests, the Christopher Street Day (CSD) 2023 in Bautzen served as a platform for celebrating human dignity and inclusion, highlighting the social-media presence and general-news coverage of the event.
- Despite the aggressive actions of extremist groups against CSD participants in previous years, including 2024, the queer community rallied in Bautzen, employing entertainment events like live music from Kraftklub to counteract the social-media-driven hatred and political agendas they opposed.
- The peaceful celebration of CSD 2023 in Bautzen, despite the challenges and threats, showcased the importance of a balanced lifestyle, acknowledging the need for progressive social values and political protections in the face of hate and extremism.
