In the east of Germany, where the far right hopes to gain political power, the trial of Björn Höcke, leader of the Alternative for Germany (AfD), has begun. Facing charges for using a Nazi slogan during a rally, Höcke maintains a calm demeanor in court despite contentious interruptions from his lawyers and objections from the prosecution.
The trial comes months before key elections in Thuringia, a region where Höcke seeks political power. Demonstrators gathered outside the courthouse to protest against the AfD and its leaders, with criticism directed at their radical positions including advocating for expulsion of foreigners from Germany. The outcome of Höcke’s trial could impact the party’s image and influence public opinion leading up to these elections.
Höcke has been vocal in his criticism of Germany’s post-war culture of repentance for Nazi crimes. A 52-year-old former history teacher, he claims ignorance of the historical significance of the slogan he used – but faces imprisonment if convicted due to strict prohibitions on Nazi symbols and slogans in this country. Despite controversial statements in the past, Höcke continues to draw support from far-right sympathizers.
Born and raised into a family with far-right beliefs, Höcke has played a significant role in driving up support for AfD in Thuringia. His radical views have put him under surveillance by intelligence services in some regions, while his trial serves as both a test of his electoral prospects and public perception ahead of upcoming elections. As the far-right movement gains momentum across Germany, it remains uncertain what impact Hoekes conviction could have on country’s political landscape.