Investigations into racist chants on Sylt largely discontinued!

Investigations into racist chants on Sylt largely discontinued!

The investigation into an incident of racist chanting on Sylt has largely been discontinued. This was reported by the Flensburg public prosecutor's office, which did not classify the chanted slogans as incitement to hatred. The incident took place in the well-known Pony Bar in Kampen, where guests shouted slogans such as “Germany for the Germans – foreigners out!” chanted. A 26-year-old man was warned for Nazi gestures, including a Hitler salute, and must pay €2,500 to a charity.

The event took place during a celebration in May 2024 and was filmed by one person. The video quickly spread on social media and caused nationwide outrage. Gigi D'Agostino, whose song "L'amour Toujours" was used for the ceremony, made it clear that it was about love and not hate or discrimination. However, this is not the first case in which a popular song has been misused for right-wing extremist slogans.

Decision of the public prosecutor's office

The investigations against two men and a woman were discontinued because the shouts did not constitute the criminal offense of incitement to hatred, according to the highest court ruling. The public prosecutor's office found that the statements and overall behavior of those involved were not intended to create or increase aggressive contempt or hostility among the population. Only the fourth person involved, who gave the Nazi salute, was prosecuted, and here too a warning and a monetary payment were sought. If he accepts the condition, there will be no trial.

The three other people involved, including a student at a Hamburg technical college, were also not pursued further. Her university responded with a two-month ban from the house. Exmatriculation, which was initially considered, was rejected as disproportionate.

Social debate about racism

This incident sparked a wide-ranging debate about right-wing extremist attitudes and racism in Germany. Social reactions make it clear that such events should no longer be tolerated. According to reports, racially marked people in particular show higher psychological distress compared to non-marked groups. Psychological distress remains stable across different time points, with women tending to have higher levels in all groups. These findings come from comprehensive studies on racism and discrimination in Germany.

Overall, it is clear that right-wing extremist statements are not only criminal, but can also have serious consequences for the communities affected. The case from Sylt illustrates the need to deal with the deep-rooted social problems of racism. Such awareness is necessary to promote respect and the rights of all people.

For more information about the psychological toll of racial discrimination, visit Racism Monitor. Detailed information about the incident on Sylt can be found at ZDF and Vienna.at.