This archive report was first published on 2 November 2019.
Published on November 2, 2019, Dresden's city council has taken a bold stance against far-right extremism in the city.
The city, which has been plagued by Islamophobic Pegida rallies and anti-immigration sentiment, has seen the Alternative fuer Deutschland (AfD) party win 28 percent in September regional elections.
Local councillor Max Aschenbach, representing the left-leaning satirical party Die Partei, brought forward a resolution titled 'Nazinotstand?,' or 'Nazi emergency.'
Aschenbach stated, "This city has a Nazi problem," highlighting the need for action against far-right extremism.
The resolution expressed concern over the rise of anti-democratic, anti-pluralist, and discriminatory positions in Dresden, which include violence.
It called for a strengthening of democratic culture, prioritizing the protection of minorities, human rights, and victims of extreme-right violence.
The motion also emphasized the importance of combating anti-Semitism, racism, and Islamophobia.
The resolution was approved by 39 council member votes against 29, with backing from left and liberal parties.
However, the centre-right Christian Democrats rejected the motion, arguing that it should not have targeted right-wing extremism only.
Thomas Loeser, a council member for the Green party, stated, "The title is clearly pointed. But we, as the city community, clearly declare our support for those who oppose racism and anti-Semitism, and expect everybody else to do the same,"
