Traffic chaos in Munich: large demonstration against the right expected on July 16th!

Traffic chaos in Munich: large demonstration against the right expected on July 16th!

On July 16, 2025, Munich will once again be dominated by protests. Under the motto “Together against the right – for democracy and diversity”, more than 250,000 people gathered in the city to demonstrate against the shift to the right in Germany. The number of participants exceeded the expectations of the organizers, who had expected around 75,000 demonstrators, and impressively shows that the topic affects many people. The police speak of around 250,000 participants, while the organizers speak of over 320,000. This massive participation reflects the concerns and desire for a colorful and democratic society.

The central rally took place in the city center, starting at Karlsplatz (Stachus) and extending across various streets in the city center. The demonstration was held on a bright summer day and attracted numerous people who mobilized with posters for tolerance and against xenophobia. Slogans such as “You don’t fight fascism with deportations” and “AfD ban now” could be read on the signs and made the protesters’ concerns clear.

Traffic restrictions due to major event

Because of the demonstration, there were significant traffic restrictions in the city area. The police warned of increased traffic volumes and temporary traffic jams in the favored area. The restrictions apply from 6:30 p.m. to 9:45 p.m. and affect, among other things, the area between Herzog-Max-Straße and Herzog-Wilhelm-Straße as well as important connections such as Sonnenstraße, Färbergraben and Viktualienmarkt. Drivers are urged to avoid the area as much as possible as diversions are not planned.

In addition to the traffic measures, the Munich Transport Company (MVG) announced bottlenecks in subway traffic, especially on the U3 and U6 lines. Crowded subway stations could be temporarily closed for safety reasons. Motorway traffic and bus routes are also affected by diversions: Bus routes 58/68, 100, 153 and 154 are being rerouted between Odeonsplatz and Siegestor and passengers should plan in advance.

A broad alliance for an important cause

The demonstration is supported by a broad alliance of unions, clubs and institutions. These include, for example, youth organizations such as Jusos, Left Youth and the Green Youth. The commitment extends far beyond political borders, as churches and cultural institutions such as the Munich Film Festival also took part in the organization and mobilization. A speaker from Austria warned of the dangers that a shift to the right poses to society and drew attention to similar developments in his home country.

Parallel to the protests in Munich, rallies also took place in other cities in Bavaria, with the number of participants far exceeding expectations. In Nuremberg, for example, at least 20,000 people demonstrated for democracy. This trend is encouraging and shows that many people want to work for a cosmopolitan and peaceful coexistence.