Immigrant shopkeepers in Germany launch strike against far right

Immigrant shopkeepers in the eastern German city of Halle staged a one-day strike on Thursday, closing their businesses to protest growing racism and fear for their future following the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party's landslide victory in recent regional elections.

The AfD, known for its anti-immigrant stance and promises of mass deportations, won nearly 44% of the vote in the September state election. Around 200 people gathered in the market square to condemn the uncertainty faced by immigrants and refugees in Saxony-Anhalt, where daily racism and attacks have increased since the election.

About 30 businesses, including barber shops, restaurants, and small retail shops, participated in the coordinated action, known as "Halle Without Us?". The strike aimed to demonstrate the vital role immigrants play in the city's life. Many shopkeepers expressed fear of losing customers and facing repercussions from far-right extremists.

Fadi Darwish, a 21-year-old owner of a shisha bar, emphasized that while he is not worried about his own future, he hopes his neighbors understand the contributions of Arab immigrants to the community. Mamad Mohamad, a regional Greens Party MP and protester, highlighted the demographic shift in Saxony-Anhalt, where the population has been ageing and shrinking since German reunification in 1990.

He emphasized that the state is grappling with a profound demographic shift, and the departure of people would have severe consequences.