Antje Tillmann, a longstanding member of Germany's CDU party, has made headlines by breaking ranks during a key vote on the controversial migration policy proposed by her party. On January 29, 2025, the Bundestag witnessed the passage of CDU's migration plan, which seeks to implement stricter border controls and immigration measures, largely buoyed by the support of the right-wing Alternative für Deutschland (AfD). Tillmann was the only CDU member to oppose the motion, signaling her dissent against increased alignment with the far-right party.
The CDU's proposal, led by party chief Friedrich Merz, faced opposition from several quarters, particularly from the coalition of left-wing parties including the SPD, the Greens, and the Left. Each of these factions stood firmly against the motion, which narrowly passed with 348 votes for it and 345 against. The dynamics shifted significantly when the AfD lent their full support, showing 75 of their members voted affirmatively for the CDU's five-point migration plan. This support has raised eyebrows about the repercussions for the CDU, which has historically distanced itself from AfD's contentious politics.
Tillmann has expressed her concerns about the inclusivity and humanitarian aspects of the CDU proposal. Writing for Thüringische Landeszeitung, she cautioned against “blanket repatriation demands” and shared her personal experiences with refugee integration, particularly highlighting the story of her Syrian ward, who arrived alone at the age of 15 and is now pursuing vocational training. Her poignant message aims to remind her colleagues of the lived realities behind policy decisions, urging them to tread carefully when enacting strict immigration laws.
The vote showcased not just political alliances but revealed fissures within the CDU itself. While the majority stood behind Merz, eight other members abstained, signaling discomfort with the party’s course, especially over its cooperation with the AfD. Monika Gütters, one of the abstaining lawmakers, did not mince words when she stated, “For me, a red line has been crossed.” Her words reflect the fears of potential long-term damage to the CDU’s image as it grapples with its ideological orientation.
On the day of the vote, as the tally showed overwhelming support from the AfD, SDL, Gütters and fellow abstainers wrestled with the decision of whether to align with their party leader or express their misgivings about relying on AfD's backing. The aim of the CDU proposal is to establish permanent border controls, enforce immediate detentions for those subject to expulsion, and create federal centers to facilitate these processes. Many experts have voiced concerns about these measures potentially contravening domestic and EU laws.
The schism within the CDU raises poignant questions about its future direction and the political impact of such compromises. Tillmann's opposition not only exemplifies the principled stance of some members, but it also highlights the urgent need for the CDU to clearly define its policy stance as it heads toward upcoming elections. Critics, including members from other political factions, have been vocal about the repercussions these policies could have on Germany's international reputation and its humanitarian obligations.
Looking forward, the political climate surrounding migration policy remains charged and divisive. With parties like the SPD and Greens opposing stricter measures, there is clearly not only contention over how to handle immigration but also growing discomfort among traditional center-right voters about the party’s shift toward the far right. Tillmann’s dissent could inspire support among constituents advocating for more humane and pragmatic migration policies.
These developments come at a time when Germany is re-evaluated for its approach to national security and integration, especially with recent EU discussions on migration reforms. Rising numbers of asylum seekers and migrants across Europe continue to test the limits of national and regional policies, placing even more pressure on lawmakers to find balanced and effective solutions. The stakes are high, not just for the CDU but for the future of German society and its cohesion.
With her vote, Antje Tillmann stands as a beacon of resistance within her party at this pivotal moment. Whether her actions will catalyze broader change remains uncertain, but there is little doubt they will provoke discussions well beyond the Bundestag about how Germany navigates the complex waters of migration and national identity.