Reich citizen
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Reich citizen
A supporter of a movement that rejects the existence and legitimacy of the Federal Republic of Germany. They claim that the German Reich still exists and do not recognize the laws and authorities of the Federal Republic.
Der Mann weigerte sich, seinen Ausweis vorzuzeigen, und bezeichnete sich selbst als Reichsbürger.
The man refused to show his ID and described himself as a Reich citizen.
The word consists of 'Reich' (empire/Reich) and 'Bürger' (citizen). It refers to the idea that a historical 'Deutsches Reich' (German Reich) still exists and that its supporters are its 'Bürger' (citizens).
Die Gruppe beruft sich auf die Gesetze des alten Deutschen Reiches.
The group refers to the laws of the old German Reich.
The term 'Reichsbürger' (Reich citizen) is used almost exclusively in journalistic and political contexts. It has a very strong negative connotation and describes an anti-constitutional attitude.
In den Nachrichten wurde über eine Razzia in der Reichsbürger-Szene berichtet.
The news reported on a raid in the Reich citizen scene.
To understand the word in texts, it is helpful to know that it is often associated with concrete actions. These include rejecting identity cards, not paying taxes, or ignoring authorities.
Er weigerte sich, die Strafe zu zahlen, weil er die Bundesrepublik nicht anerkennt.
He refused to pay the fine because he does not recognize the Federal Republic.
The word is often used as the defining element in compounds to describe groups or their worldview. Common examples are 'Reichsbürger-Bewegung' (Reich citizen movement), 'Reichsbürger-Szene' (Reich citizen scene), or 'Reichsbürger-Ideologie' (Reich citizen ideology).
Der Verfassungsschutz beobachtet die Reichsbürger-Bewegung.
The domestic intelligence service monitors the Reich citizen movement.
