Far-Right German Politician Faces Trial for Alleged Use of Nazi Slogan

Björn Höcke, a prominent member of Germany’s far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party, has gone on trial for allegedly using a banned Nazi slogan. Höcke, the 52-year-old leader of the AfD in the eastern state of Thuringia, faces charges related to his use of the phrase “Alles für Deutschland” (“Everything for Germany”)—a slogan associated with the Nazis’ SA stormtroopers.

Prosecutors allege that Höcke knowingly used the Nazi slogan at two separate political events, one in May 2021 and another in December 2023. Despite facing criminal charges related to the first instance, Höcke is accused of repeating the phrase at an AfD event in his home state of Gera. The trial, which opened in the state court in Halle, is expected to last until mid-May.

Höcke, known for his far-right views, has denied awareness of the phrase’s Nazi origins,claiming it to be a common saying. However, prosecutors argue that he used the slogan despite knowing it is banned in Germany and carries legal consequences.

The trial comes amid growing scrutiny of the AfD’s far-right ideology and its potential impact on German politics. Höcke’s role as a key figure in the party’s Thuringian branch adds significance to the trial, particularly as the AfD leads in the polls ahead of regional elections in September.

While Höcke’s defense team challenges the charges, alleging bias in the judicial process, protesters gathered outside the court, condemning his alleged use of Nazi symbols. The outcome of the trial could have implications for Höcke’s political career and the AfD’s electoral prospects.

Höcke’s prominence within the AfD has sparked concerns about the party’s direction, with critics accusing it of embracing xenophobic and nationalist sentiments. The trial also highlights Germany’s efforts to reckon with its dark history and prevent the normalization of extremist ideologies.

The controversy surrounding Höcke is not new. He has previously faced criticism for controversial remarks, including calling Berlin’s Holocaust memorial a “memorial of shame” and advocating for a shift in how Germany remembers its past. Despite these controversies, Höcke has remained a influential figure within the AfD, particularly in Thuringia where the party has seen significant electoral success.