Upcoming AfD event at Hugenottenhalle in Neu-Isenburg sparks demonstrations
The city of Neu-Isenburg, located in the state of Hesse, is gearing up for a divisive political event. On February 1, the Alternative for Germany (AfD) party will hold a campaign event at the Hugenottenhalle, a decision that has sparked protests from local residents and activist groups.
The AfD, a far-right political party known for its nationalist, anti-immigration, and Islamophobic positions, has gained significant electoral ground in Germany. In the 2025 federal election, it became the largest party in several East German states and doubled its national vote share to 20.8%. However, its extremist label and controversial stance on issues have led to a "firewall" against cooperation from mainstream parties.
The city of Neu-Isenburg cannot exclude the AfD from using municipal facilities based on their political content. The rental of the Hugenottenhalle to the AfD is legally binding. Nevertheless, the city has made it clear that the rental does not constitute support or endorsement of the party's political positions.
A group called OMAS Gegen Rechts, comprising members from Frankfurt, Offenbach, Neu-Isenburg, Dreieich, and Langen, has registered a demonstration and rally against the AfD event. They are committed to setting a sign for democracy and diversity, emphasizing the resistance of many people in the region to the AfD's political orientation.
The city of Neu-Isenburg is taking several measures to ensure the event adheres to the principles of the rule of law and security requirements. It will assess the implementation of the AfD event, evaluate its impact on local affairs, and examine the course of the event. The city is also working closely with the police and other relevant authorities to maintain public safety during the event and the planned protests.
This is not the first time AfD events have faced public protests and criticism. Across Germany, AfD events are regularly met with demonstrations by anti-fascist groups, local residents, and political opponents, reflecting widespread public unease and resistance against the party's platforms and rhetoric.
The city of Neu-Isenburg sees it as its task to promote the values of the liberal democratic order and to shape the dialogue on the basis of respect. It plans to ensure that the implementation of the AfD event is in line with these principles, while also upholding the rule of law and ensuring public safety.
[1] "Alternative for Germany (AfD): Background, Ideology, and Controversies." Council on Foreign Relations. [https://www.cfr.org/backgrounder/alternative-germany-afd] [3] "Germany's AfD: From Fringe to Mainstream." BBC News. [https://www.bbc.com/news/world-europe-45804378] [4] "Germany's AfD: A Rising Far-Right Party." Deutsche Welle. [https://www.dw.com/en/germany-s-afd-a-rising-far-right-party/a-46700511] [5] "The Rise of the AfD in Germany: Causes and Consequences." European Council on Foreign Relations. [https://www.ecfr.eu/article/commentary_the_rise_of_the_afd_in_germany_causes_and_consequences]
The following policy-and-legislation implications of the upcoming AfD event in Neu-Isenburg, a city in Hesse, need to be considered. Despite the general-news backlash and protests against the AfD's controversial positions, the city cannot exclude them from using municipal facilities legally. This incident highlights the ongoing politics surrounding the AfD party in Germany, a far-right political group renowned for its nationalist, anti-immigration, and Islamophobic stances.
