German Schools Close After Far-Right Extremist Threats

DUISBURG, Germany (April 7, 2025) – Multiple schools in Duisburg, a city in western Germany, have shifted to remote learning following threatening emails from suspected far-right extremists. The closures, impacting roughly 20 schools, including all comprehensive and secondary schools, and one Gymnasium, have prompted police investigations and heightened security measures.

Threatening Letters Trigger Closures

The decision to close the schools came after a comprehensive school in central Duisburg, Gesamtschule Mitte, received a letter Friday containing threatening and right-wing extremist statements. On Sunday, a similar letter was sent to the same school, also referencing 13 other schools in the city. The letters announced planned criminal acts to occur on Monday, April 7th.

Duisburg police announced the closures Sunday evening, stating that in-person classes would be suspended at the affected schools. A police spokesperson told the German Press Agency that distance learning would be implemented as a substitute.

Police Investigation and Security Measures

The Duisburg state security department immediately launched an investigation into the source of the threatening letters. Police stated that "any threat of this kind constitutes an initial suspicion of disturbing the public peace by threatening criminal offences and will be systematically investigated and prosecuted."

Despite experts from the Duisburg State Security Office concluding that the announced acts were likely not serious, authorities opted to take precautionary measures. Police presence was increased at several schools Monday to further minimize any potential risk.

Impact on Students and Parents

The sudden school closures have caused disruption for students and parents in Duisburg, a city of approximately 500,000 residents. Many schools posted information on their websites regarding the threat and the cancellation of in-person classes. While most grammar schools, primary schools, and technical secondary schools remained open for in-person lessons, some allowed optional attendance or offered remote learning alternatives. Parents were advised to regularly check their schools' websites for updates.

Rising Concerns About Far-Right Extremism

This incident highlights growing concerns about far-right extremism in Germany. In July 2023, two teachers in Burg, Germany, were forced to leave their town after denouncing Nazi and far-right student behavior. The teachers reported students giving Nazi salutes, scratching swastikas on desks, and playing music with racist lyrics.

In December 2022, a report emphasized the threat of far-right extremism in Germany as a matter of child protection. The report noted that schools are often the only spaces where children growing up in right-wing extremist communities can escape their parents' authority and experience democratic values.

Broader Implications

The school closures in Duisburg serve as a stark reminder of the ongoing threat posed by right-wing extremism in Germany. The incident raises questions about the safety and security of educational institutions and the potential impact on students and educators. It also underscores the need for continued vigilance and proactive measures to combat extremism and protect vulnerable communities.

As of Monday morning, it remained unclear when schools would reopen for in-person learning. Authorities are continuing their investigation, and parents are urged to stay informed about further developments.