BERLIN – Tensions within Germany’s political sphere are rising as Friedrich Merz, leader of the Christian Democratic Union (CDU), faces mounting criticism for his approach to migration policy. This situation has reignited debate among various factions within the party and highlighted differences between Merz’s more hardline stance and the viewpoints of previous party leaders, including Angela Merkel.
Following recent comments from Merkel, who expressed regret over the CDU’s alignment with the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party, Merz finds himself at the center of controversy. Merkel stated it was ill-advised for democratic parties to seek support from AfD votes, underscoring the necessity for collaboration outside of traditional partisan boundaries. Her admonitions came after the Bundestag's decision on migration policy, wherein the CDU backed measures reflecting AfD positions. “Policy discussions should be conducted in a measured tone,” Merkel emphasized, insisting on adherence to existing European law to facilitate constructive dialogue.
The former chancellor’s critique did not sit well with the AfD, whose co-leader, Alice Weidel, retorted by accusing Merkel of undermining her successors. “It does not surprise me ... stabbing her successor in the back,” she shot back, asserting Merkel's earlier policies initiated the 2015 migration crisis, and she was now resistant to change. Weidel contended Merkel's influence was eroding the CDU's standing as a traditional conservative party.
Meanwhile, support for Merkel's insights emerged from the Social Democratic Party (SPD), with chairwoman Saskia Esken saying, “I am very grateful to her,” reflecting Merkel's impact on reminding Merz of his responsibilities for state governance.
Behind these public arguments lies another layer of complexity: the CDU’s internal debates over its migration strategies and the urgent need to balance appeasement of both conservative constituents and broader public sentiments. Many critics argue Merz’s willingness to partner with AfD members signals the erosion of the party’s centrist foundations, risking its ideological identity.
Compounding the situation is the political backdrop of the upcoming elections, set for February 23, 2025. Historically, the migration issue has polarized German politics, particularly against the backdrop of increasing asylum applications over the past few years. For months, Merz endeavored to steer public attention away from migration, focusing instead on economic issues. Yet recent events—including violent incidents involving asylum seekers—compelled him to recalibrate his position and adopt more stringent immigration proposals. The shocking murder of a two-year-old boy by an asylum seeker earlier this month added fuel to fire, forcing Merz's hand.
Last week, the CDU leader pushed through a non-binding motion endorsing stricter immigration policies, which inadvertently drew support from the AfD. This unprecedented alliance raised concerns among many political observers about encouraging the far-right and damaging Germany’s previously stable consensus-driven political environment. Critics like current Chancellor Olaf Scholz fear this could set dangerous precedents. “The largest country in the EU would openly violate EU law like only Viktor Orban has done previously,” Scholz remarked, cautioning against the potential fallout of Merz’s plans.
Merz’s proposed five-point immigration strategy seeks to permanently reinstate border checks and impose significant restrictions on asylum seekers and irregular arrivals. Critics worry this approach would represent not only a radical shift for Germany but could violate EU laws intended to protect individuals applying for asylum. “If someone applies for asylum, they cannot be turned away, even if they do not have any papers,” explained Winfried Kluth, head of the government’s Expert Council on Integration and Migration, indicating possible conflicts with European legal standards.
Adding tension to the mix, neighboring countries, many of which are led by Merz's own European People's Party affiliates, have shown reluctance to agree to his hardline ideas. Austrian Chancellor Alexander Schallenberg and the Polish government have distanced themselves from the CDU’s renewed emphasis on stringent border control, raising alarms about whether Merz’s plans could instigate broader discord across Europe. Some politicians and experts warn of potential legal encounters with European courts as Merz’s policies clash with established EU laws.
Merz has expressed impatience with neighbors, asserting, “But I believe we can't just talk now, we have to act.” It reflects the rising urgency at the core of his migration strategy, as well as the quick approach to election season.
Opinions within Germany are polarized; many predict Merz’s plans could trigger a domino effect leading to stricter enforcement of laws across Europe. Conversely, the current government warns of widespread negativity if cooperation collapses, citing past failures with Italy related to handling Dublin cases. The increased chances of asylum seekers disappearing or becoming “refugees in orbit” were also raised, leading to suggestions on reconsidering unilateral actions and restoring collaborative problem-solving with EU peers.
The coming months will be pivotal, not only for Merz but for the CDU as they find their footing amid these tumultuous political waters. The future direction of the CDU's migration approach could greatly influence its unity, voter base, and relationship with EU partners—all under the scrutiny of growing public opinion.