Reichsbürgertum

Reichsbürgertum (Reich Citizens movement) is a loosely organized counter-state phenomenon in Germany and parts of Europe. Adherents reject the legitimacy of the modern German state, the Federal Republic of Germany and its Basic Law, contending that the German Reich continues to exist in one of its historical forms. In their view, individuals or communities can declare sovereignty, and state authorities, taxes, and bureaucratic procedures are not binding.

Origins and scope: The movement is not a unified organization but a network of local groups, online communities, and individuals. It gained prominence in the late 2000s and expanded through the 2010s. While many participants espouse anti-government and conspiratorial ideas, the group also includes elements with right-wing extremist views; German authorities categorize some adherents as potential security risks.

Beliefs and practices: Beliefs center on sovereignty claims and non-recognition of the modern state. Practically, adherents may issue their own identity documents and vehicle registrations, refuse to cooperate with authorities, and resist taxes and compulsory regulations. They often rely on pseudo-legal theory and obscure legal texts to justify non-compliance and to avoid administrative processes.

Legal status and impact: In Germany, Reichsbürger activity is monitored by the Federal Office for the Protection of the Constitution as a right-wing extremist phenomenon. Some adherents have engaged in criminal or violent acts, including weapons offenses and clashes with police during investigations. Law enforcement has conducted numerous operations to seize illegal weapons, forged documents, and to revoke privileges such as identification documents in certain cases.

Summary: The Reichsbürgertum represents a challenge to the rule of law, combining antigovernment ideology with anti-constitutional claims. It remains a subject of ongoing monitoring and research by security services and scholars.