»Im Vordergrund steht immer die Tat ...«

Gerichtsverfahren gegen Mitglieder der RAF

Abstract

When analyzing the trials against the members of the RAF and the 2nd of June Movement, one notices to what extent they are a political issue and a reflection of conflicts in German society. At the same time the field reveals a considerable need of research. This remains true despite the abundance of literature concerning terrorism in Federal Germany, given the tendency merely to reproduce existing knowledge. It is in fact the »Myth RAF« and the widespread stereotypes of »terrorists« – the unbridgeable polarizations and the mutual insinuations and resentments – that have impeded a more sophisticated analysis and the necessary contextualization. Against this background divergent positions, here relating to the prosecutions against members of the RAF and the 2nd of June Movement, are contrasted. There are four questions at the centre of this essay: 1. »State enemy No. 1« or just »ordinary criminals«? 2. Is it individual or organized crime? 3. Is the trial unprejudiced or is there a prejudgment of the defendant? 4. Is there equal treatment or are sharpened conditions in force?