The German Interior Minister, Alexander Dobrindt, condemned the group, stating they attempted to "undermine the rule of law" by creating an alternative governance structure and propagating antisemitic theories. This radical faction, which Fitzek claims boasts thousands of followers, operates with its own currency and identity documents while advocating for the establishment of separate banking and healthcare systems.
Fitzek, a former chef who garnered attention for his regal proclamations and self-coronations, has had multiple confrontations with German authorities, including past jail time for disregard of traffic laws, which he framed as a rejection of state legitimacy. The Reichsbürger movement—numbering around 25,000—has increasingly been regarded as a serious security threat in Germany due to its connections to right-wing extremism and conspiracy theories.
While historically perceived as mere eccentrics, the group’s rise and current crackdown are indicative of the broader challenges posed by far-right movements in the country, as illustrated by their previous plots to overthrow the government. With an increasing emphasis on public safety, the German government is intensifying its efforts against these extremist factions.
Fitzek, a former chef who garnered attention for his regal proclamations and self-coronations, has had multiple confrontations with German authorities, including past jail time for disregard of traffic laws, which he framed as a rejection of state legitimacy. The Reichsbürger movement—numbering around 25,000—has increasingly been regarded as a serious security threat in Germany due to its connections to right-wing extremism and conspiracy theories.
While historically perceived as mere eccentrics, the group’s rise and current crackdown are indicative of the broader challenges posed by far-right movements in the country, as illustrated by their previous plots to overthrow the government. With an increasing emphasis on public safety, the German government is intensifying its efforts against these extremist factions.



















