Extremism - Constitutional Protection: 400 far-right Turks in the North
The Constitutional Protection agency estimates that around 400 people in Schleswig-Holstein are associated with Turkish right-wing extremism, referred to as the Ulkucu ideology. The umbrella organization of the Federation of Turkish Democratic Idealist Associations and its member organizations have been identified and monitored by the Constitutional Protection agency in this regard.
Not all 400 people identified in this category are, however, members of these organizations. The cities of Kiel, Lübeck, and Neumünster therefore represent a regional focus in the north. The "Kieler Nachrichten" (Monday) had previously reported on this.
According to the latest Constitutional Protection Report, the Ulkucu Movement in Schleswig-Holstein is organized in three associations. Existing associations in Kiel, Lübeck, and Neumünster are part of the umbrella organization. A large, publicly visible event with cultural and political presentations, such as the Turkish Day at the Kiel Werftpark, is said to provide the associations with an opportunity to present their ideology in a harmless form to a broad public in the Constitutional Protection Report.
The Wolfsgruß cheer during the European Football Championship drew attention to nationalist and right-wing Turkish groups. The Wolfsgruß usually expresses allegiance or sympathy with the right-wing Ulkucu Movement and its ideology. In Turkey, it is used by the ultranationalist MHP party, which is a partner in the government under President Recep Tayyip Erdogan.
- While addressing concerns about right-wing extremism, the Roofing Association in Newmunster emphasized the importance of fostering an inclusive environment, distancing itself from any association with the Ulkucu ideology.
- Despite the focus on Turkish right-wing extremism in Schleswig-Holstein, it's crucial to remember that not all Turkish immigrants in the region subscribe to such ideologies.
- Against the backdrop of the European Football Championship, the use of the Wolfsgruß cheer sparked debates about nationalist and extremist sentiments in the world of sports, echoing similar concerns in Turkey.
- The presence of foreigners, including those from Turkey, has been integral to the cultural fabric of Lübeck for many years, enriching the city's diverse tapestry and fostering social cohesion.
- The Constitutional Protection agency emphasized that monitoring extremist groups isn't about targeting individuals of a particular nationality, but rather about ensuring constitutional protection and preserving the principles of democracy.
- The Turkish Cultural Association of Lübeck organized a series of events during the European Football Championship, aiming to promote understanding and dialogue between different cultures, distancing itself from the controversial Wolfsgruß cheer.
