Germany’s political arena is facing seismic shifts as the conservative Christian Democratic Union (CDU), led by Friedrich Merz, forges a controversial partnership with the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party to advance stricter migration policies. This unprecedented collaboration marks the first time since World War II mainstream political factions have relied on far-right votes to secure parliamentary approval, engulfing the country’s political discourse just weeks before pivotal elections.
On January 31, 2025, the CDU's non-binding motion, which advocates for tighter border and asylum regulations, narrowly passed the Bundestag, thanks to the AfD's unexpected support. Spearheaded by Merz, the motion aligns with rising public fears over immigration following a series of violent incidents involving asylum seekers, including a tragic knife attack last week attributed to an Afghan asylum seeker. Critics, including former Chancellor Angela Merkel, lambasted the move as detrimental to Germany's political integrity and safety.
Merkel, who led the CDU before Merz, publicly rebuked her successor on Thursday, labeling his decision to cooperate with the AfD as “wrong.” The outraged reaction signals not only internal party conflicts but also broader concerns about the possible erosion of democratic values. “Democratic parties must work together honestly and moderately,” Merkel argued, emphasizing the danger of normalizing the far-right's influence.
Friedrich Merz, poised to become Germany’s next chancellor, defended his tactics as necessary, insisting, “A right decision does not become wrong because the wrong people agree with it.” This statement encapsulates the pragmatic approach Merz is attempting to adopt, as he positions his party against the backdrop of growing public anxiety surrounding immigration and security.
The passage of this motion, which received 348 votes in favor and 345 against, has incited vehement backlash from both the left-wing parties and various civil organizations. Chancellor Olaf Scholz criticized the move, saying it jeopardizes the principles of European and German asylum law. “You have broken this basic consensus of our republic,” he asserted, reflecting widespread alarm over the potential legitimization of the AfD within mainstream politics.
Political analysts and opposition leaders express fears Merz’s strategy may lead to normalization of extremist ideologies, creating pathways toward future coalitions with the AfD. Scholz portrayed this movement as a departure from Germany’s commitment to uphold democratic values, which for decades has firmly opposed far-right collaborations. With the AfD currently commanding about 20% approval ratings, its integration or tacit acceptance by larger parties could have long-lasting effects on the political fabric of Germany.
The far-right party hailed the successful vote as “a historic day for Germany.” Alice Weidel, leader of the AfD, framed the outcome as evidence of the waning influence of traditional parties, proclaiming, “A new era is beginning here and now, and we are leading it!” Indeed, the AfD has emerged as the most vocal opponent of current asylum policies, leveraging populist rhetoric to gain traction among constituents frustrated with established norms.
Public demonstrations erupted across Germany following the vote. Hundreds protested outside CDU headquarters, decrying the move as xenophobic and dangerous to social cohesion. Organizations such as Amnesty International were vocal against the CDU’s departure from historically established bounds of collaboration with extremist parties.
The ramifications of this shift extend beyond immediate political discourse and draw parallels with broader European trends of right-wing populism. Hungary’s Prime Minister Viktor Orbán welcomed Germany’s pivot, stating, “Good morning, Germany! Welcome to the club!” His comments highlight the interconnected nature of far-right movements across Europe, where many countries have seen similar electoral victories and shifts toward strict immigration policies.
Looking forward to the elections on February 23, the fallout from this collaboration poses challenges for coalition-building post-election. With CDU's recent actions altering political dynamics, party leaders from both the SPD and Greens are pushing back against not just the policies but the very legitimacy of working with the AfD. This development complicates potential alliances, as coalition partners may now perceive the CDU's willing utilization of far-right support as compromising their own values and principles.
Opinions within the CDU itself are also fracturing. General Secretary Carsten Linnemann defended Merz, stating the need to respond to current security concerns, indicating the internal strife facing the party as it tries to reconcile traditional conservative values with these new, more hardline stances. Meanwhile, SPD and Green leaders have quickly labeled Merz's tactics destructive and counterproductive, reinforcing their stance against any cooperation with the AfD.
This climate of division demonstrates the rising stakes as German parties prepare for what many believe could redefine the country's political future. Merz aims to demonstrate he can restore stability and order concerning immigration, yet equally risks alienation from moderate voters who might recoil from affiliations with extreme elements.
For now, the consequences for both Merz's CDU and the AfD remain to be fully seen as the February elections draw closer. Will this gamble pay off, or will it backfire and solidify opposition against the far-right? With heavy drama marking this phase of German governance, all eyes will be on how these dynamics evolve leading up to the elections and beyond, reshaping not just the parties but the very essence of German democracy.