Right-Wing Extremism Threats in Dresden's Hochland Stir Political Controversy

Tom Keiling, head of Interkulturelle Verständigung Dresden (ZIVD), has brought alarming news of sustained threats and violence linked to the far-right group 'Hochlandjugend' in Dresden's Hochland neighborhood. Since 2017, residents including Keiling have faced intimidation, exemplified by damage to ZIVD property and threatening notes featuring crosshairs, some found in Keiling's son's school bag.

Keiling publicly confronted AfD council member Lars Günsel, who organizes weekly "Montagsdemos" demonstrations where members of the 'Hochlandjugend' have been observed. While Günsel denies any extremist connections and describes his rallies as peaceful, photographic evidence shows 'Hochlandjugend' individuals participating in his February 2026 demonstration. Günsel acknowledged this after the fact, claiming unawareness of their presence.

Keiling stressed that his confrontation was not personal but a call for Günsel to take responsibility in countering extremist influences within his events. The situation highlights an emerging political grey area in Dresden, with far-right elements intertwining with local political activism. The ongoing intimidation severely impacts the community's sense of safety and underscores challenges in addressing right-wing extremism locally.