Attacks on German Churches and Religious Communities Surge in 2024

Germany has seen a significant rise in attacks against churches and religious communities in 2024, according to data released by the Federal Ministry of the Interior and the Federal Criminal Police Office.

Reported crimes targeting churches increased by 20%, with 111 incidents recorded. Broader offences against religious communities surged as well, rising from 7,029 in 2023 to 8,531 in 2024. Notably, crimes specifically targeting members and representatives of religious groups jumped by 22%, from 6,122 to 7,504.

Between January and 10 December 2024, authorities documented 228 crimes classified under the "anti-Christian" subtopic. These included one homicide, 14 assaults, and 52 cases of property damage. Additionally, 96 crimes were registered with a “church” subtopic, 47 of which involved damage to property.

Officials have not yet attributed the rise to any single cause, but the increase reflects a broader trend of hostility toward religious groups across Europe. The German government has pledged to continue monitoring the situation closely and to enhance protective measures for religious institutions and their members.

The figures have raised concern among faith leaders and human rights groups, who are urging stronger preventive efforts and swift action against perpetrators.

Source: Shalom World News