Unrest at Neu-Isenburg's AfD election rally: Law enforcement takes action
In Neu-Isenburg, Germany, on February 1, 2025, an AfD election campaign event at the Hugenottenhalle was met with protests and clashes. The demonstrations were instigated by individuals opposing the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party and its controversial right-wing positions[1][2].
Initially, authorities anticipated around 1,000 counter-demonstrators, but the number swelled significantly, with approximately 10,000 people gathering throughout the morning to voice their opposition to the AfD's presence and campaign activities in Neu-Isenburg[1].
During the day, there were several incidents of clashes between demonstrators and police, although most protests remained peaceful. Protesters attempted to build roadblocks and block emergency routes, but the police intervened, preventing these efforts and filing reports for property damage[3].
The police statement indicated that several thousand people exercised their right to assembly peacefully[4]. However, at certain points, officers were compelled to use batons and pepper spray to secure a barrier in front of the hall[5]. There were also chaotic scenes at the nearby Isenburg-Zentrum, where AfD supporters tried to enter the hall through the shopping center[6].
One person sustained an injury to their shoulder during an arrest and received medical treatment[7]. Throughout the day, the police made several arrests and seized pyrotechnics and grill lighters from three suspects who attempted to enter the cordoned-off area at the Hugenottenhalle[8].
Despite the turbulence, the situation gradually improved as the day progressed. From 5:30 PM, the roadblocks were gradually lifted, and by 7 PM, the area around the Hugenottenhalle was fully reopened to traffic[9].
The police concluded the event largely positively, with most demonstrators adhering to the right of assembly, and major escalations being prevented[10]. Investigations into possible criminal offenses were initiated following the incidents.
Other general news reports detailed the ongoing politics and war-and-conflicts discussions in the European Parliament, focusing on the increasing tensions between countries over their stances on crime-and-justice issues, particularly regarding the handling of migrant and refugee crises. Meanwhile, protests continued in Neu-Isenburg, with some protesters demanding the shift of funds from the police budget to social services, citing the recent events as evidence of the need for change.
