Tens of thousands of people gathered in Berlin for this year's Christopher Street Day (CSD) Pride parade, which took on a distinctly political tone amid rising concerns over far-right extremism and hate crimes in Germany. Under the slogan "Never shut up," participants called for stronger protections for the LGBTQ community and expressed alarm over recent political developments, including the decision by Bundestag President Julia Klöckner not to raise the Pride flag on the Parliament building. Chancellor Friedrich Merz also faced criticism for dismissing the flag as a "circus," a comment many saw as undermining LGBTQ rights.

Demonstrators voiced fears that hard-won rights are being eroded and emphasized the importance of visibility in the face of growing hostility. Some participants highlighted the symbolic power of the Pride flag and expressed hope that it might one day fly again over the Bundestag under different leadership. Others warned that political rhetoric from top officials risks legitimizing oppression.

Despite the serious undertone, the event remained festive, with techno music and rainbow flags filling the streets. Organizers noted a record turnout, reflecting both solidarity and urgency. Many attendees also called for LGBTQ rights to be enshrined in the German constitution and demanded more effective measures to combat hate crimes.