Germany’s domestic intelligence agency reports unprecedented levels of extremist activity, with right-wing extremism posing the greatest threat.

Germany’s Federal Office for the Protection of the Constitution (BfV) has released its 2025 annual report, revealing a record-high number of extremist individuals. Right-wing extremism remains the most significant threat to the nation’s democratic order, according to Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt. The report highlights a concerning rise in the number of right-wing extremists, now estimated at 58,700 individuals, up from 50,250 in 2024. Of these, 15,600 are classified as violence-oriented, marking a slight increase from the previous year. Right-wing extremist crimes have surged by 8.9% year-on-year.

The report also notes the classification of the Austrian broadcaster ‘AUF1,’ which operates a studio in Germany, as a confirmed right-wing extremist entity since February 2026. Additionally, the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party remains under scrutiny. Despite legal challenges, the BfV continues to monitor the party as a ‘suspected case’ of extremism. The AfD’s membership has grown to 70,000, raising concerns about the increasing number of extremists within its ranks. The prospect of an AfD-led government in Saxony-Anhalt has sparked fears of compromised security, with officials warning of potential leaks of sensitive information.

The report also sheds light on the systematic radicalization of youth within the right-wing extremist scene. Extremist ideologies are being instilled at an early age through family events, cultural gatherings, and youth camps. Groups like ‘Letzte Verteidigungs Welle’ are actively pursuing violent agendas, including arson and bomb attacks targeting asylum centers and left-leaning organizations, aiming to destabilize the democratic system.

Left-wing extremism has also seen a notable increase, with the number of individuals rising to 42,200 in 2025 from 38,000 the previous year. Among them, 11,600 are identified as violence-oriented, a new record. The report highlights a growing trend of radicalization within the left-wing scene, with attacks on critical infrastructure and confrontations with right-wing extremists and law enforcement becoming more frequent.

The findings underscore the urgent need for robust measures to counteract the growing threat of extremism in Germany. The government has pledged to conduct a thorough analysis of potential risks, particularly in light of the upcoming elections and the possibility of an AfD-led administration. The report serves as a stark reminder of the challenges facing Germany’s democratic institutions in an increasingly polarized political landscape.