The Turkish Community in Germany (ATT), in a statement on the 10th anniversary of the attack on the Olympia Shopping Center (OEZ) in Munich, drew attention to the fact that far-right and racist violence in Germany has become a growing social threat. ATT Chairman Gökay Sofuoğlu emphasized the need for stronger political will and more resources to be allocated to the fight against racism.

In a statement on the 10th anniversary of the attack carried out on July 22, 2016, at the Olympia Shopping Center in Munich, which claimed the lives of nine young people, the Turkish Community in Germany recalled that despite being considered an "amok" attack for years, it was later recognized by official authorities as a racially motivated terrorist attack.

ATT Chairman Gökay Sofuoğlu stated that the Munich attack cannot be considered independently of the far-right terrorist attacks in Kassel, Halle, and Hanau, adding that these incidents are links in the same chain of hatred.

"We respectfully commemorate the nine young people who lost their lives at OEZ. These losses must not be in vain," said Sofuoğlu, adding that the fight against racism must be continued with determination.

An Average of 12 People Are Targeted by Racist Attacks Every Day

The ATT statement also included 2025 data published by the Association of Counseling Centers for Victims of Racist, Antisemitic and Far-Right Violence (VBRG).

According to the data:

  • In 13 states, 3,167 far-right, racist, and antisemitic attacks were recorded within one year.
  • These attacks affected 4,298 people.
  • In Germany, an average of 12 people every day become victims of far-right or racist attacks.
  • More than half of the recorded incidents are directly racially motivated.

Sofuoğlu pointed out that official statistics do not fully reflect the reality, stating that many victims do not report the attacks they experience to official authorities due to fear or distrust.

Racism Not Limited to Physical Violence

The ATT emphasized that racism in Germany is not limited to physical attacks but also manifests itself through discrimination experienced in housing, employment, education, and daily life.

The statement noted that the increasing normalization of hate speech and far-right ideologies in society threatens the democratic order, adding that these developments target not only immigrants but also Germany's social peace and democratic values.

"More Support Must Be Given to the Fight Against Racism"

The ATT criticized budget cuts for projects aimed at strengthening democratic values and programs combating extremism, calling for more financial and institutional support for public institutions and civil society organizations.

The statement emphasized that the far-right threat can only be prevented through a strong democracy, effective legal mechanisms, and sustainable civil society efforts.

BabaAjans/BERLIN