The increase in the number of individuals classified as extremists who have legal permits to carry or possess weapons is a worrying reality in Germany. Despite reforms two years ago in the laws regarding weapons, aimed at facilitating the revocation of permits for extremists, statistics show that these individuals still have easy access to firearms.
Concerning Statistics on Armed Extremists
Research by North German Television (NDR) indicates that by the end of 2025, over 1,600 individuals classified as extremists will hold legal weapon permits. More than 1,300 of these individuals belong to the far-right spectrum or the group known as "Reich Citizens"; a movement that does not recognize the legitimacy of the German political system.
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This situation reflects the failure of legal measures to reduce the number of armed extremists. Information from the ministries of the interior of German states shows that, apart from far-right extremists, individuals from the far-left and Islamists are also included in these statistics, although their numbers are lower than those of far-right extremists.
Challenges in Revoking Weapon Permits
Responsible authorities are trying to revoke the weapon permits of extremist individuals and confiscate their firearms. This process faces many challenges due to legal complexities and frequent complaints from gun owners. In 2025, only 250 weapon permits were revoked from extremists, while in 2024, 360 permits were taken back from neo-Nazis and members of the "Reich Citizens" movement.
Markus Mempel, spokesperson for the Association of German Counties, points to significant challenges faced by local authorities in revoking weapon permits and emphasizes the need for clearer legal regulations. Meanwhile, administrative courts are also encountering difficulties in assessing the qualifications of gun holders, which exacerbates inconsistencies in judicial procedures.
Given these conditions, the German Ministry of the Interior emphasizes the importance of gradual and long-term reforms in this area, stating that implementing legal changes requires time. The challenges ahead seem to impact public security in Germany and make the need for more serious actions in this regard unavoidable.
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