Right-wing extremism is a significant threat to democracy in Germany, a leading security official has warned.

Jochen Hollman, the domestic intelligence agency chief in the eastern German state of Saxony-Anhalt, told dpa in comments released on Monday.

It said that the violence was increasing in rural areas, where far-right ideas are spreading.

“We see a rise in willingness to use violence among right-wing extremists, including among action-oriented youth,” said Mr Hollmann.

Since 2022, intelligence officials have noted an influx of right-wing extremists moving into the rural Harz district, particularly from the western state of North Rhine-Westphalia.

These individuals have frequently joined local demonstrations where supporters of the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party gathered.

Mr Hollmann noted that right-wing extremists appear to find it easier to operate in rural eastern Germany, where they face less resistance.

The AfD, classified by Saxony-Anhalt as a confirmed right-wing extremist party, has been gaining political influence in parts of the region ahead of state elections scheduled for 2026.

In some municipalities, the centre-right Christian Democrats have cooperated with AfD representatives.

David Begrich, an expert on right-wing extremism, said that due to the AfD’s vocal and confrontational style, other right-wing extremist efforts, such as those seen in demonstrations in Harz, also thrive in their wake.

The AfD in Saxony-Anhalt rejects accusations like these, calling itself a deeply democratic party.

It also said allegations against it are often inaccurate and politically motivated, stressing that individuals are free to choose whether to attend demonstrations, provided they are peaceful and legal. 

(dpa/NAN)