Stephan Kramer, who heads the BfV in the state of Thuringia, said Germany must be prepared for the possibility that "legitimate" protests over energy and economic crises could be "infiltrated by extremists."
He told ZDF broadcaster on Wednesday that demonstrations could be expected over
"gas shortages, energy problems, supply difficulties, possible recession, unemployment, but also the growing poverty right up to the middle class.If such scenarios materialize, "we're likely to be confronted with mass protests and riots," the official warned.
"'Extremists' who could hijack the protests include the so-called 'lateral thinkers' who rallied against coronavirus restrictions during the pandemic, and right-wing activists who have already been stirring the mood on social media in recent months."
Comment: Hypothetical suggestions precondition the public's mindset. Evolving definitions change the rules.
Due to Covid-19 and the economic fallout from EU sanctions on Russia over the conflict in Ukraine:
"We're dealing with a highly emotionalized, aggressive, future-pessimistic mood in society, whose trust in the state, its institutions and political actors is fraught with massive doubts.The security chief added that if this happens the clashes seen by Germany during the pandemic will "probably feel more like a children's birthday party" by comparison.
"This highly emotional and explosive mood could easily escalate."
According to the official, effective crisis management and cooperation between political forces on all sides of the spectrum would be required to avoid what he called a "hot autumn."
But the most important factor in avoiding unrest and maintaining social peace should be restoring the confidence of Germans in the authorities, he added.
Kramer also advised the people to "think carefully about which protests and demonstrations you join, or better stay away from them altogether, so as not to support the enemies of democracy."
Comment: Double-speak. Take this advice you will do exactly what the 'enemies of democracy' require.
They are counting on German conformism. If they deprive people of comfort, they reckon softly.
It is possible, but I don't think they can be agitated too much.
They will not rebel.