Germany's Domestic Intelligence Warns of Growing Right-Wing Extremism as Far-Right Party Surges

Russia and China increase spying and disinformation operations in Germany, according to Germany's Federal Office for the Protection of the Constitution.
There was a rise in extremist crimes of all shades in 2022 compared to 2021, with far-right extremists posing the biggest threat, according to Germany's domestic intelligence agency.
The number of far-right extremists in Germany reached 38,800 last year, up nearly 5,000 from 2021, and 14,000 were potentially violent, the agency reported.
The far-right AfD party has links to extremists and Russia, is polling strongly, and stands to win state elections, though voters should consider the threat posed by right-wing extremism, the agency chief said.
There was an increase in attacks on refugees and migrants, and the threat posed by right-wing extremism and terrorism is rising, Germany's interior minister warned.