What it is about
Despite a legal ban in Germany, xenophobic chants and songs, including Nazi salutes, have surfaced among some European football fans during the Euro 2024 matches. This includes fans from Hungary, Poland, Austria, and Italy singing a distorted version of DJ Gigi D’Agostino’s song, appropriated with xenophobic lyrics “Foreigners Out” (Ausländer Raus).
Why it matters
This disturbing trend highlights the ongoing challenges in combating hate speech and xenophobia, especially in public events like international football tournaments. The revival of far-right slogans confronts not just Germany but Europe at large with the specter of its dark past, necessitating vigilance and a commitment to multicultural values.
The Incident
Despite the German government’s specific ban on the song and the melody, fans have continued to sing xenophobic chants during Euro 2024 matches. Hungary fans were recorded singing “Ausländer Raus” while marching to a game, with visuals showing some performing Nazi salutes.
Government and UEFA Response
The German government has taken immediate action by requesting platforms, such as X (formerly Twitter), to block these videos in Germany. UEFA reacted by banning the melody of the song from being used during European Championship matches to mitigate its misuse for spreading xenophobic ideas.
Deep-Rooted Issues
The xenophobic rendition originated from far-right activists known for their antisemitic and neo-Nazi affiliations. This shows how Nazi-ideologies still reverberate in certain segments of society, manifesting in some instances, despite European governments’ and organizations’ efforts to eliminate them.
A Broader Perspective
Instances of fans from multiple European countries participating in these chants illustrate a broader problem of intolerance. These actions, if unchecked, could tarnish the fundamentally inclusive and unifying nature of international sporting events like the Euro Cup.
In Summary
This issue underscores the need for continued vigilance and proactive measures against hate speech and xenophobic behaviors at mass gatherings. By confronting and condemning these actions loudly and universally, Europe can reinforce its commitment to multiculturalism, tolerance, and unity.
This story was first published on jpost.com.