Thousands march against racism in German city of Cologne

COLOGNE (AA) - Thousands of people took to the streets of Cologne, Germany on Thursday to march against racism on the occasion of the UN’s International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination.

The event, organized in the largest city of North Rhine-Westphalia state, underscored a collective determination to combat racial prejudice and foster inclusivity.

Gathering at six points throughout the city, participants waved placards bearing anti-racist messages and chanted slogans condemning discrimination of any kind.

​​​​​​​In speeches after the march, criticism was directed at the secret meetings held in the city of Potsdam by politicians from the Alternative for Germany (AfD) party, known for its anti-foreigner and anti-Muslim stance, and Austrian far-right nationalist Martin Sellner regarding a plan to deport millions of people of foreign origin from Germany.

The actions of the far-right AfD were also criticized in the speeches, and it was demanded that the party, which undermines social cohesion, be banned.