Germany’s Federal Criminal Police Office (BKA) reported a significant increase in the number of takedown requests for Islamist content in 2025, with approximately 23,000 requests sent to online service providers. This figure represents a substantial rise compared to previous years, where annual requests ranged from 7,240 to 13,903 from 2020 to 2024. The information was disclosed in a government response obtained by the news agency dpa.
The uptick in takedown requests indicates a growing concern regarding extremist content on digital platforms. The notifications sent by the BKA highlight breaches of terms and conditions that online platforms have established. In 2025, the effectiveness of these requests improved, with approximately 96% of flagged Islamist posts being removed, compared to around 90% in 2024 and roughly 80% in 2023.
Formal Removal Orders Under EU Regulation
In addition to these requests, authorities issued formal removal orders under a European Union regulation targeting terrorist content. These orders mandate that service providers delete identified terrorist material within one hour or restrict access across the EU. In 2025, there were 215 such orders, all of which were executed as mandated. By contrast, in 2024, 462 removal orders were sent, with a compliance rate of about 96%.
The Joint Internet Centre (GIZ), established in 2007, plays a crucial role in coordinating efforts to identify extremist content online and evaluate potential threats. The GIZ includes participation from the BKA and the Federal Office for the Protection of the Constitution. While the removal of illegal content is primarily the responsibility of Germany’s federal states, the federal government can provide additional support. The BKA retains a specific mandate for cases involving terrorist material.
Shift in Focus and Content Types
The increase in takedown requests is attributed to a heightened focus on individual users within Germany and specific types of content, such as nasheeds—religious hymns that can also serve as vehicles for Islamist propaganda or incitement to violence. This shift reflects a broader strategy to combat extremism online and ensure the safety of digital spaces.
Germany’s government continues to enhance its measures against extremist content, demonstrating a commitment to addressing the challenges posed by online radicalization and ensuring that platforms uphold community standards. As technology evolves, so too does the approach to monitoring and removing harmful content from the internet.
