Germany prohibits 'far-right' publication Compact Magazine

The German federal government has prohibited the far-right magazine Compact, accusing it of fanning "unspeakable" animosity toward Jews, Muslims, and foreigners while undermining the nation's constitutional democracy.

In a significant stance against right-wing extremism, Interior Minister Nancy Faeser ordered immediate searches at four states where the publication was known to operate, due to its proximity in ideology with the Alternative für Deutschland (AfD) party and its endorsement of their pursuit for power.

Minister Faeser labeled Compact a "key voice for right-wing extremists" and declared the ban as evidence that the government is actively countering those who aim to incite hostility and violence against refugees, migrants, and challenge democratic principles. She emphasized, "Our message is clear – ethnicity will not determine German citizenship."

Compact-Magazin GmbH, its parent publishing company, as well as an affiliated media production organization, Conspect Film, were all prohibited by the government agency. Founded in 2010, Compact had a monthly circulation of approximately 40,00 CV, positioning itself as "the voice of resistance."

The magazine was known for disseminating racist, anti-Semitic, anti-Muslim and far-right conspiracy theories, while also propagating Reichsbürger-like narratives about overthrowing the government. The latest issue featured a cover slogan reminiscent of Nazi Germany: "Germany for Germans," which was highlighted in an online video that went viral and sparked nationwide criticism after being performed by prominent rightist party members on the island of Sylt.

The magazine's editor-in-chief, Jürgen Elsässer, a former left-wing activist who turned to far-right ideologies, can appeal against the ban. Following the dawn raids, he criticized the government actions as attacks on press freedom and claimed that all of Compact's funds had been seized, causing him to be unable to pay staff salaries.

Elsässer founded a small yet influential media empire including an online video channel with nearly 350,000 subscribers, and various merchandise featuring far-right slogans. While bans on the press are uncommon in Germany due to free speech laws, Faeser contended that Compact posed a direct threat to the nation's stability.

"It must be feared that recipients of [Compact’s] media products will become influenced by these publications and act against our constitutional order," asserted the interior ministry in its statement. The ministry also linked Compact with alternative right-wing movements, like the Identitarian Movement's leader Martin Sellner, who previously contributed to the magazine.

The German government has consistently regarded right-wing extremism as a significant domestic security challenge for many years.