Left-Extremist Endeavours

"Party of Democratic
Socialism" (PDS)
The Partei des Demokratischen Sozialismus (PDS - "Party of
Democratic Socialism"), due to its success in the European elections
- it succeeded for the first time in jumping the 5 per cent
qualifying hurdle (proportional representation barrier) - and also in
the Landtag elections, has been able to reinforce its position
within the party structures of the Federal Republic. However,
notwithstanding its solidified outward image, its attitude towards
essential elements of the free democratic fundamental order is
still ambiguous in parts. The Party continues to adhere to the aim
of overcoming the existing order. It makes it possible for openly
extremist structures to engage in political activities and, as
before, maintains contacts with German and foreign left-extremists.
Action themes In the traditional action areas of left-wing extremists - "anti-imperialism",
"antimilitarism" and "anti-fascism" - current events in
1999 provided for prominent initiatives and action priorities.
Particular occasions for the mobilization of left-extremist as well
as other opponents of the "prevailing world economic order" and
of "neoliberalism" were the EU summit and the G-8 Summit in
Cologne in June. It was insinuated, with varying ideological
stress and aggressiveness, that the participating politicians and
the industrialized nations were instruments in the service of unbridled
capitalism which exacerbated social injustices, exploited
the countries of the Third World and destroyed the environment.
Left-wing extremists also claimed that Germany allegedly strove
for a Great Power role. This was, as they see it, evidenced in the
participation of the Federal Armed Forces in NATO operations
against Yugoslavia. Protests were expressed, inter alia, by
means of agitation and actions against military events, escalating
in attacks on Bundeswehr facilities and party offices, and in
bodily assaults.
An action theme of undiminished interest - for all spectrums of
left-wing extremism - again was "anti-fascism" (actions against
right-wing extremists and supposed right-wing extremists, and
against their structures). Also, "resistance" against the use of
nuclear energy and research in the field of genetic engineering
continued. In addition, left-wing extremists continued their agitation
against the world exhibition EXPO 2000 in Hanover; this
was accompanied by militant actions against institutions and
companies participating in, and/or supporting, the exhibition.
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