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

Commemoration and Warning on the 10th Anniversary of the OEZ Massacre

In a statement on the 10th anniversary of the attack that took place on July 22, 2016, at the Olympia Shopping Centre in Munich, in which nine young people lost their lives, the Turkish Community in Germany recalled that despite being considered an "amok" attack for years, it was later recognized by official authorities as a terrorist attack committed with racist motives.

ATT Chairman Gökay Sofuoğlu stated that the Munich attack cannot be considered independently of the far-right terrorist attacks in Kassel, Halle, and Hanau, expressing 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 Targets of Racist Attacks Every Day

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

According to the data:

  • Within one year, 3,167 far-right, racist, and antisemitic attacks were recorded in 13 states.
  • 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 carried out directly with racist motives.

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 Is Not Limited to Physical Violence

ATT emphasized that racism in Germany is not limited to physical attacks but also manifests itself through discrimination experienced in finding 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, and 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"

ATT criticized the 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.

Baba Agency/MUNICH