Germany Bans Right-Wing Compact Magazine, Accuses it of Inciting Hatred

Germany's interior ministry has banned the right-wing Compact magazine for inciting hatred and being a 'mouthpiece of the right-wing extremist scene.' The publication is seen as supporting the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party and its activities have been prohibited. Searches were conducted in four states to seize assets and evidence.

Germany's interior ministry has banned the right-wing Compact magazine, citing its role as a 'mouthpiece of the right-wing extremist scene' and accusing it of inciting hatred towards Jews and foreigners. This move is part of the government's intensified efforts against the surge in far-right extremism.

Compact magazine, known for its support of the radical wing of the Alternative for Germany (AfD) party, has a circulation of 40,000 and a significant social media presence. The ban extends to its subsidiary, Conspect Film, halting all previous activities. Searches were conducted at the magazine's office and the residences of its key figures across four states to gather evidence.

Interior Minister Nancy Faeser emphasized that the magazine incites hatred against Jews and migrants, posing a grave threat to German democracy. Right-wing extremism, she stated, is the greatest radical threat to the country as the AfD's popularity continues to rise. Despite the ban, Compact's website and social media accounts remained accessible.