Ongoing Publication of Condensed Periodical Remains in Progress - Continuation of Publishing for The Compact Periodical
Hey there! Here's the lowdown on the controversial "Compact" magazine.
Covering sovereignty and far-right views, this German publication has been stirring up the rhetoric since 2010. Known for its xenophobic, antisemitic, and conspiracy-laden content, it's no surprise it has strong ties with the Alternative for Germany (AfD) party and the Islamophobic Pegida movement.
In the summer of 2024, the Federal Administrative Court in Leipzig decided to lift the ban imposed by then-Federal Interior Minister Nancy Faeser (SPD) on this far-right publication. Despite numerous polemical and pointed statements, the court determined that the line to constitutional hostility had not been crossed. However, it was made clear that the "Compact" publishers align with the "Remigration Concept" of Austrian right-wing extremist Martin Sellner.
Initially headquartered in Brandenburg's Falkensee, the media company is now based in Stoßen, Saxony-Anhalt. With a circulation of approximately 40,000 copies, the magazine has also gained traction online, reaching up to 460,000 clicks on its online video channel.
The judges' decision may seem surprising, given that the German Office for the Protection of the Constitution classified the publication as a "certainly far-right extremist" in 2020. This was based on its antisemitism, Islamophobia, xenophobia, and contempt for democratic principles. Yet the court's ruling reiterates the Basic Law's guarantee of freedom of opinion and the press, even for those perceived as enemies of freedom.
As we move forward, keep an eye on the political landscape in Germany, as the AfD, with which "Compact" is closely associated, holds significant influence. Over 20% of the vote went to the AfD in the 2025 snap federal election, marking their best result since World War II.
So, there you have it! The Federal Administrative Court has made its decision – "Compact" can continue publishing. The antagonism between combating extremism and upholding constitutional freedoms such as freedom of expression and the press remains a hot topic in Germany.
Stay informed and stay curious! 💭🔍🇩🇪
Footnote: This post has been updated several times to reflect the latest developments.
- The Court of Justice's decision to lift the ban on "Compact" magazine has stirred discussions about the intersection of finance, business, politics, and general-news, particularly in Germany, as the magazine continues to publish, contributing to the influence of the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party.
- As the AfD party gains significant traction in politics, the financial support and distribution of "Compact" magazine, known for its xenophobic, antisemitic, and conspiracy-laden content, raises questions about the limits of freedom of opinion and the press in the face of extremism.
