Human Rights Watch Highlights Rising Rights Concerns in Germany Amid Political Shifts

Human Rights Watch's 2026 reports have cast a critical light on Germany's current human rights landscape, noting significant challenges linked to political developments and government policies. Following the February 2025 Bundestag elections, the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) gained considerable votes, prompting a coalition government between CDU/CSU and SPD, which has since enforced stricter migration and asylum controls. This shift has coincided with a sharp rise in politically motivated hate crimes—increasing by 40% in 2024—with half attributed to far-right extremism, alongside growing anti-Muslim and anti-Semitic offenses.

The report underscores growing concerns about restrictions on freedom of expression and assembly, exemplified by police crackdowns on pro-Palestinian protests in Berlin and the criminalization of climate activism from groups like 'Last Generation.' Additionally, efforts to curb criticism of Israel have sparked fears of suppressed academic freedom, while parliamentary inquiries target civil society organizations opposing right-wing extremism, raising alarms over potential suppression of dissent.

Philipp Frisch, Germany director at Human Rights Watch, criticized Germany’s unwavering support for Israel amid civilian attacks in Gaza, stating this stance damages Germany’s moral credibility globally. Moreover, the adoption of AfD rhetoric by mainstream parties has worsened racism toward immigrants. The government’s tightened migration policies also restrict asylum and family reunification processes despite legal opposition.

In the social sphere, hate crimes based on sexual orientation and gender identity have increased, further highlighting the deteriorating human rights environment. These developments emerge against a backdrop of Germany’s foreign policy pivot towards security and economic interests under Chancellor Merz, emphasizing challenges posed by autocratic regimes.

As Germany grapples with these internal and external pressures, the Human Rights Watch reports emphasize the urgent need for safeguarding civil liberties and addressing the rise of right-wing extremism to prevent further erosion of human rights protections.