Y-Kollektiv: DANGEROUS KNIFE HYPE

“I carry a folding knife for my own protection.” – “That’s just normal nowadays.” At the skatepark in Halle-Neustadt, young people speak openly about a troubling trend: more and more teens are carrying knives – for intimidation, self-defense, or simply as a status symbol. The new Y-Kollektiv documentary “Dangerous Knife Hype” investigates this growing phenomenon. Reporter Laura Kipfelsberger travels to Halle (Saale), where she meets teenagers, boxing coaches, bouncers, and people who have personally been affected by knife violence.

Her journey begins in Saxony-Anhalt. At a boxing club in Halle-Neustadt, Laura meets Ronny – once prone to violence himself, now a coach and mentor to young people. His stark observation: “They’re ready to stab – it’s crazy.” The film reveals just how easily even banned knives can be purchased – online, without any age checks. TikTok algorithms amplify the trend, portraying knives as cool accessories. Even seemingly harmless meetups at local kiosks can spiral out of control. One teenager shows Laura a scar: “That was from a knife.”

How does this shape youth culture – when carrying a knife becomes the new normal? And what’s the police response to this shift? In Bremen, Laura joins officers during a weapons check in a restricted zone – with unexpected results.

Y-Kollektiv is ARD’s youth-focused documentary format, known for its transparent, self-critical approach and in-depth reporting. The journalists dive into people’s lives with fresh perspectives – emphasizing thorough research, immersive observation, and encounters on equal terms.