Tens of thousands in Germany protest rise of far right
Demonstration against far-right takes place in Cologne with participation of about 10,000 before European Parliament elections
People attend a demonstration against far-right and racism under the theme of “A Democratic Europe” in the Deutz district before the European Parliament elections in Cologne, Germany on June 1, 2024.
COLOGNE, Germany
A massive anti-far-right, anti-racism demonstration took place in western Germany on Saturday.
Less than a week before the European Parliament elections begin, the demonstration was held in the city of Cologne with the theme "A Democratic Europe," attended by some 10,000 people.
Supported by various civil society groups, the demonstration aimed to boost participation in the European Parliament elections, especially among young people, and to send a message to the rising extreme far-right movements.
Speakers at the protest stressed that the rise of extreme far-right and demagogic parties poses a serious threat to fundamental political and social rights as well as human rights in Europe.
Police ramped up security measures as local musicians provided entertainment during the event.
The European Parliament elections are due to take place in EU member states on June 6-9.
* Writing by Seda Sevencan
