The Trademark Takedown: A New Front Against Far-Right Extremism

In a corner of the internet where far-right extremists try to circumvent German law, they use coded language on merchandise. “Hitler” becomes “HTLR,” and the swastika is reduced to “HKNKRZ.” But activists with the campaign “Recht Gegen Rechts” (Rights Against the Right) have been registering these symbols as trademarks at the European trademark office, turning a clever move into law.

The goal of this campaign isn’t just to disrupt online stores selling far-right merchandise but also to strip neo-Nazis of their sense of security. By doing so, they’re making it harder for extremists to spread their ideology and profit from it. According to Simon Knittel of Jung von Matt, a German creative agency behind the campaign, “Neo-Nazis shouldn’t feel like they have a safe haven; they should be afraid that the ideas they have – the ones they’re selling – might be taken away from them and that the products will need to be removed.”

The campaign’s strategy involves two key elements. First, by registering trademarks of extremist symbols, law enforcement can take action against online stores continuing to sell these items without permission. This could result in fines or even imprisonment for sellers. Second, Rights Against the Right has been turning neo-Nazi slogans into snarky anti-Nazi merchandise, effectively reclaiming language and imagery used by extremists.

The campaign’s efforts have already borne fruit. When it published its first press release announcing trademark registration, online stores began taking down items featuring registered symbols within 30 minutes. The team has secured six trademarks so far and is working to register more. However, the process of registering trademarks can be lengthy and costly – up to six months and €1,600 ($1,823) per registration.

Funding remains a challenge for the campaign, which relies on donations to operate. Harassment in the form of hate mail and emails has been common, and the team is seeking name donors to register each trademark under an individual’s name. The ongoing lawsuit with Tommy Frenck, owner of Druck 18, adds to their burden.

Germany’s strict approach to Nazi symbols reflects its history and efforts to prevent National Socialism from reviving. Under Section 86a of the German Criminal Code, displaying or distributing symbols of unconstitutional organizations is generally prohibited, including symbols associated with the Nazi Party such as the swastika, SS symbols, and the Nazi salute.

The campaign’s approach raises questions about free speech versus hate speech. While some argue that restricting coded language on merchandise goes too far, others see it as a necessary measure to prevent extremist ideology from spreading. The campaign is making a point that the internet can be used not only for spreading hate but also for fighting it.

Ultimately, the success of Rights Against the Right will depend on its ability to secure more trademarks and continue registering them under individual names. Continued support from donors and name sponsors willing to take a stand against far-right extremism online will also be crucial. The campaign’s approach might be unconventional, but it’s clear that it’s making a difference – one trademark at a time.

The internet is a powerful tool for spreading hate, but it can also be used as a means to fight back. Rights Against the Right is demonstrating that with creativity and determination, language and imagery used by extremists can be reclaimed and turned into a force against their ideology. As long as neo-Nazis feel secure in selling their merchandise online, they’ll continue to spread hate. It’s time for us to take away their safe haven – one trademark at a time.