Martin Sellner and remigration movement activities

Martin Sellner, an Austrian activist associated with the Identitarian movement, has expanded his political influence through the registration of the ‘Institute for Remigration’ in Saxony-Anhalt, Germany. The institute’s vision involves transforming the region into a ‘model state for remigration,’ a concept that targets not only undocumented individuals but also legal residents, naturalized citizens, and German nationals with migration backgrounds. To address legal barriers regarding German citizens, the group proposes methods such as political pressure and structural measures to encourage ‘self-deportation.’

In October, Sellner faced legal restrictions in France. He was detained at a French airport and faced deportation after being denied entry to the country. This occurred as he intended to visit a Parisian bookstore to promote his book, ‘Remigration.’ Additionally, French authorities banned a right-wing congress and a demonstration related to the remigration concept. The regional prefect justified these bans by characterizing the congress as being based on a ‘xenophobic and racist ideology.’

Following instructions from Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez, French officials also banned a ‘remigration’ congress in a Paris suburb and a demonstration in Paris. Regional authorities maintained that these events were based on an ideology that views migrants as a fundamental threat to European countries. Sellner, who is active with the ‘Save Europe Act’ initiative, criticized the enforcement on social media, stating, ‘You can stop people but not ideas.’