Trial begins of eight accused of plotting to overthrow German state
GuardianJun 20
Germany: Third Trial Begins for 'Reichsbürger' Coup Plotters
Above: Heinrich XIII Prince Reuss arrives in the courtroom for the continuation of the "Reichsbürger" trial on June 4, 2024 in Frankfurt, Germany. Image copyright: Boris Roessler-Pool/Getty Images News via Getty Images
The Facts
Eight alleged members of the Reichsbürger began their trial on Tuesday over charges of membership in a right-wing terrorist organization and preparing for an act of treason. This is Germany's third trial of Reichsbürger members.
Reichsbürger, German for "citizens of the Reich," is a movement that claims that the modern German state is illegitimate, with an estimated 23K people adhering to its beliefs. Authorities allege the group has "antisemitic attitudes" and a "high affinity" for weapons.
The Spin
Right narrative
The German government is more worried about prosecuting a group of elderly conspiracy theorists than defending the country from real threats. While the Reichsbürger movement may have objectionable and fringe views, it's not a crime in itself to hold a political belief. Given the remote possibility of this group ever committing violence, we have every reason to question the motives of the government in making an example of these accused.
Left narrative
The far-right in Germany has expanded in influence, and the threat of violence grows by the day. Armed with a cache of weapons and a poisonous ideology, the Reichsbürger members had everything they needed to commit real-world violence. The group's connections to political parties in the country make matters worse — necessitating immediate action to combat hatred before this movement inflicts real-world damage.