According to the findings of the Bavarian Office for the Protection of the Constitution, the procedure is similar in each case: conspiracy myths are widespread, state protection measures are defamed and attempts are made to arouse discontent in towards the democratic system at all levels.
“The rampant spread of conspiracy myths, which have no factual basis, is likely to infect larger sections of the population with a fundamental dissatisfaction with the rule of law,” Herrmann said. “If this discontent solidifies in the long term, it offers extremists an ideal breeding ground for training new followers or sympathizers.” The resulting danger to the rule of law should not be underestimated, he warned.