Germany Bans Far-Right ‘King of Germany’ Group and Arrests Its Leaders
Germany Bans Far-Right ‘Kingdom of Germany’ Group
On May 13, 2025, the German government took decisive action against the far-right group known as the “Kingdom of Germany” (Königreich Deutschland). The Federal Ministry of the Interior officially banned the organization, citing its activities as anti-constitutional and a threat to Germany’s democratic institutions. This move underscores the government’s commitment to countering extremist groups that seek to undermine the nation’s constitutional order.
Background of the ‘Kingdom of Germany’
Founded in 2012 by Peter Fitzek, a self-proclaimed “King of Germany,” the “Kingdom of Germany” is the largest and most active group within the Reichsbürger movement. The organization claims approximately 6,000 members and operates with its own flag, currency, and constitution, primarily based near Wittenberg. Fitzek, born on August 12, 1965, in East Germany, has a history of legal issues, including a 2017 embezzlement conviction, which was later overturned. Despite these challenges, he has continued to lead the group, promoting its agenda of establishing a parallel state that rejects the legitimacy of the Federal Republic of Germany. (en.wikipedia.org)
Government’s Response and Legal Actions
The ban on the “Kingdom of Germany” was accompanied by coordinated raids across several states, involving 800 officers. Authorities confiscated the group’s assets and blocked its online presence. Four leaders, including Fitzek, were arrested during these operations. Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt described the organization as a criminal network promoting antisemitic conspiracy theories and aiming to destabilize the constitutional order. (apnews.com)
Reichsbürger Movement and Its Ideology
The Reichsbürger movement comprises various groups and individuals who reject the legitimacy of the modern German state, the Federal Republic of Germany, in favor of the German Reich. Adherents typically believe that the German Reich continues to exist in its pre-World War II or pre-World War I borders and that its legitimate government is one of the Reichsbürger organizations. This ideology often includes conspiracy theories, antisemitism, and racism. The movement has been monitored by the Federal Office for the Protection of the Constitution as an extremist organization. (en.wikipedia.org)
Implications for Germany’s Democratic Institutions
The government’s decision to ban the “Kingdom of Germany” highlights the ongoing challenges posed by far-right groups within the country. While the ban is a significant step in protecting democratic institutions, it also raises questions about the effectiveness of such measures in addressing the underlying causes of extremism. Critics argue that banning groups may not fully address the root issues and that a more comprehensive approach, including political engagement and addressing voter concerns, is necessary to counter the rise of far-right ideologies. (theatlantic.com)
Conclusion
The ban on the “Kingdom of Germany” represents a firm stance by the German government against extremist groups that threaten the nation’s democratic foundations. However, it also serves as a reminder of the persistent challenges posed by such movements and the need for ongoing vigilance and comprehensive strategies to safeguard democratic values in Germany.