Germany has reported a significant escalation in the removal of online Islamist content, with the Federal Criminal Police Office (BKA) sending approximately 23,000 takedown requests to service providers in 2025. This number marks a stark increase from previous years, where annual requests ranged from 7,240 to 13,903. The surge in requests illustrates a growing commitment by German authorities to combat extremist material on the internet.
This dramatic rise in takedown requests aligns with a government response obtained by the Deutsche Presse-Agentur (dpa). The notifications issued by the BKA alert online platforms to violations of their terms and conditions, prompting them to remove the identified material. The rate of successful removals has also seen notable improvement; in 2025, around 96% of flagged Islamist posts were taken down, an increase from 90% in 2024 and approximately 80% in 2023.
Formal Removal Orders Under EU Regulation
In addition to takedown requests, the German government utilizes formal removal orders under an EU regulation designed to address terrorist content. In 2025, authorities issued 215 such orders, all of which were successfully implemented. This is a notable efficiency rate, reflecting the commitment of service providers to comply with legal mandates. In comparison, 462 removal orders were issued in 2024, with a compliance rate of around 96%.
The Joint Internet Centre (GIZ) plays a crucial role in coordinating efforts to detect extremist content online. Established in 2007, GIZ includes participation from both the BKA and the Federal Office for the Protection of the Constitution. While the removal of illegal content primarily falls under the jurisdiction of Germany’s federal states, the federal government assists in these operations. The BKA maintains a specific mandate for cases involving terrorist material, which underscores the seriousness with which the government approaches this issue.
Focus on Individual Users and Nasheeds
The increase in takedown requests is attributed to a heightened focus on individual users within Germany, as well as a particular emphasis on so-called nasheeds. Traditionally, nasheeds are religious hymns, but they can also serve as vehicles for Islamist propaganda or incitements to violence. This dual nature of the content necessitates a vigilant approach to monitoring and addressing potential threats.
With the rise in online extremist content, Germany’s proactive measures reflect a broader trend across Europe to ensure that digital platforms are held accountable for the material they host. As the landscape of online communication continues to evolve, the BKA’s efforts to combat extremist content demonstrate a critical commitment to national security and public safety.
Efforts to remove harmful content from online spaces are ongoing, and as authorities adapt to new challenges, the importance of cooperation between government bodies and digital platforms cannot be overstated.
