In photos: Mass protest in Germany against far-right ahead of election

More than 200,000 demonstrators gathered at Munich’s Theresienwiese on Saturday to protest against far-right extremism, just weeks before Germany’s general election, reported AP. (AP photo)

The rally, larger than expected, was organised in response to the rising popularity of the far-right, anti-immigrant Alternative for Germany (AfD), which is currently polling in second place. (AP photo)

The demonstration was backed by activist groups, the Munich Film Festival, churches, and football clubs FC Bayern and TSV 1860. (AP photo)

Police reported that the event remained peaceful. Similar rallies took place in Hanover, Rostock, and other cities. (AP photo)

Last month, thousands gathered at Berlin’s Brandenburg Gate, singing anti-fascist songs and criticising far-right parties across Europe. (AP photo)

Protesters have also criticised Friedrich Merz, the centre-right leader and election front-runner, for supporting stricter migration rules that received AfD backing. (AP photo)

The AfD, founded in 2013, entered Germany’s national parliament in 2017, gaining momentum after former Chancellor Angela Merkel’s decision to allow a large influx of migrants in 2015. (AP photo)