German grannies fight far-right influence

While some grandmas might be knitting or baking, these grannies are out on the streets of Munich with a single mission: to defend German democracy.

"OMAS GEGEN RECHTS" ('Grannies Against the Right') is an initiative that unites politically active older people who stand up for democracy, diversity, tolerance and the rule of law.

Founded in Austria in 2017 in response to the rise of right-wing political forces in the country, the initiative reached Germany the following year, where the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) was gaining ground.

"It is inexplicable to me that there is so much support for radical right-wing parties again, given our Nazi history," said Elisabeth Redler, who has been a member of the German "OMAS GEGEN RECHTS" for the last six years.

The AfD is currently polling second in Germany's election race, behind Friedrich Merz's conservative bloc, though it has little chance of winning power for as long as the other parties continue to rule out inviting it for coalition talks.

"I think it is our civic duty to defend our constitution and our liberal democracy. And yes, we grannies have made it our duty to do so," said Redler.

And they certainly have: every Friday before the snap national election on February 23, the 'OMAS GEGEN RECHTS' set up an information point in various districts of Munich to talk to passers-by about their worries and concerns in light of the upcoming vote.

The "Omas" try to do it as creatively as they can: they sing songs, promising to "chase all fascists off the yard", stage puppet shows and perform self-composed "granny rap".

The members of the Munich 'OMAS GEGEN RECHTS' also meet with each other three times a month to discuss their concerns and think of ways in which they can bring them to the attention of their fellow citizens.

In September 2024, the 'OMAS GEGEN RECHTS' initiative was awarded the Aachen Peace Prize for its commitment and in recognition of the importance of intergenerational dialogue.