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Mayors in Germany living with hate, threats

August 7, 2025

Death threats, hostility and fear: local politicians in Germany are under attack. Mayors Erik Lierenfeld and Gerald Lehmann speak out about the rising tide of right-wing extremism and the personal toll it takes. Can solidarity and democracy withstand the pressure?

https://p.dw.com/p/4yOPG

In recent years, there have been increased attacks on local politicians — online and in real life.

In 2019, the murder of politician Walter Lübcke rocked the country. The district president of the city of Kassel was killed because of his pro-refugee stance. The perpetrator, a right-wing extremist, was later sentenced to life in prison.