German Rappers Spread Hate Speech on TikTok, Investigators Reveal

Far-right German-language rappers are exploiting platforms like TikTok to disseminate extremist rhetoric and disinformation, according to an investigation by Agence France-Presse (AFP). These artists, including the rapper known as MaKss Damage, whose real name is Julian Fritsch, have been found to violate hate speech policies while promoting anti-Semitic views. In one notable video, Fritsch drew controversial parallels between the conflict in Gaza and Hitler’s ideology, suggesting that “back then it was Germany, today it’s Palestine.” His imagery included a transformation into a demonic silhouette, further amplifying the disturbing message.

The video in question features Fritsch rapping about historical figures while displaying a tattoo associated with far-right ideologies. He referenced unfounded conspiracy theories surrounding the September 11 attacks, claiming that the Jewish owner of the World Trade Center had prior knowledge of the events. Following AFP’s inquiry, TikTok removed all of Fritsch’s accounts but has not provided clarity on its enforcement of hate speech regulations.

Rising Extremism and Political Context

Germany has witnessed a troubling rise in politically motivated crimes, particularly those of an anti-Semitic nature. Official figures released in May indicated a surge in such offenses, coinciding with increased support for the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party, which has capitalized on growing anti-immigration sentiment. Fritsch is part of a network of far-right performers who use social media to spread extremist views, contributing to the radicalization of a segment of the online community.

The neo-Nazi movement online has become significantly more prominent in recent years, as noted by Thorsten Hindrichs, a musicologist at the University of Mainz. Reports from Germany’s Saxony domestic intelligence agency reflect this expansion, revealing that some videos remain accessible despite clear violations of social media policy.

Complex Relationships and Messaging

Fritsch’s music also reflects a complex relationship between the European far right and the Muslim world. While they actively oppose what they term “Islamisation” in Germany, experts like Bernhard Weidinger, a researcher at the Documentation Centre of Austrian Resistance in Vienna, highlight an ambivalence towards Palestinians, whom they see as victims of Jewish and American influence.

Another prominent figure, the rapper E.Mar, has garnered more than 96,000 monthly listeners on Spotify. His work critiques Germany’s immigration policies, expressing sentiments of alienation among native Germans. His videos, often featuring a masked persona, have attracted considerable attention on TikTok, where he has amassed hundreds of thousands of views.

Platforms like Spotify have stated they remove content promoting violent extremism, yet users often find ways to circumvent restrictions. The challenge of moderating hate speech remains prevalent, as evidenced by the continued availability of problematic content, including a song by US rapper Kanye West glorifying Nazi ideologies.

Recruitment and Community Dynamics

Researchers highlight TikTok’s unique features, such as its live video function, which enables creators to interact in real time with viewers. This format fosters a more intimate environment that can facilitate extremist recruitment, according to Markus Boesch from the University of Muenster. He noted that some posts encourage users to join far-right communities on platforms like Telegram or Discord, which typically impose fewer content restrictions.

Despite efforts to monitor and control these communities, they remain agile, often shifting between accounts to evade detection. Users have even developed coded language, utilizing emojis to signal allegiance to far-right movements without facing immediate repercussions.

The presence of these extremist communities on social media poses significant challenges for platforms like TikTok and Facebook, which engage in fact-checking to combat misinformation. With over 2,400 staff representing diverse nationalities, AFP is part of a broader effort to ensure the integrity of information shared online.

The findings of this investigation underscore the urgent need for social media platforms to enhance their content moderation policies to combat the spread of hate speech and extremist ideologies effectively.