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Politics
29 January 2025

German Parliament Passes Immigration Motion Amid Controversy

Politicians decry AfD's influence as strict measures push immigration debate to the forefront.

Germany's parliament descended into chaos on January 29, 2025, as lawmakers narrowly passed a non-binding motion urging tough restrictions on immigration, particularly fostering collaboration with the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD). This contentious vote marked the end of long-standing political norms against cooperating with the AfD, and it has sent ripples through the already strained political climate.

Movement for stricter immigration rules gained momentum following recent violent incidents, most recently highlighted by a knife attack in the city of  Magdeburg, which drew attention to issues surrounding asylum seekers. Following these events, the conservative Christian Democratic Union (CDU) leader Friedrich Merz proposed what he called his “five-point plan,” which sought to impose more stringent measures on immigration policy. Despite opposition from mainstream political factions for its associations with the AfD, the motion eventually passed with 348 votes for it, 345 against, and 10 abstentions.

The debate on immigration policies has intensified as concerns over public safety surged after the attack, prompting arguments for greater restrictions on entering the country. Merz expressed frustration with the existing system, calling it “clearly dysfunctional,” and argued for turning asylum seekers back at the border and establishing permanent border controls. This motion, though non-binding, recommends rejecting all attempts to enter Germany illegally, including from persons already deemed safe from persecution.

Chancellor Olaf Scholz criticized the motion, labeling it as “an unforgivable mistake” by Merz, asserting it poses substantial risks to the established democratic values of Germany. Scholz stated, “We do not make common cause with the far-right,” as he warned against normalizing the influence of the AfD following their support of the immigration measures. Scholz's critiques reflect underlying fears about the AfD's effect on public discourse and governing norms.

Merz, head of the CDU, remains intent on solidifying his stance, as polls suggest increased support for tougher immigration policies among the electorate. This shift is especially telling as he seeks to position himself favorably before the upcoming elections scheduled for February 23, 2025. Critics within the SPD and Greens condemned his willingness to court the far-right's support, claiming it jeopardizes the democratic integrity of German governance.

AfD leader Alice Weidel hailed the vote as “a historic victory for democracy,” asserting it signifies the rise of new political dynamics shaping Germany’s future. Following the motion’s passing, she called on mainstream parties to reconsider their long-time strategy of avoiding any dealings with her party, which she referred to as 'undemocratic.' The shift has drawn harsh rebuke from various social and political leaders, including those from religious institutions who warn of the corrosive potential such shifts hold for the fabric of German democracy.

Notably, during parliamentary proceedings on the contentious motion, the spirit of consensus on immigration came under fire, as several party leaders articulated their dismay at the outcome. Robert Habeck, the vice chancellor and Greens’ candidate for chancellor, pleaded with Merz to reconsider his decision to side with the AfD, emphasizing the importance of adhering to democratic traditions. The fear of adopting policies driven by the far right has taken center stage amid protests and broader demands for humane treatment and rights for asylum seekers within the parliament.

The tension within the Bundestag reflects broader societal divisions as Germans continue grappling with immigration-related crises. The CDU’s plan, described by opponents as “extremist” and “racist,” directly counters existing EU laws on refugees and asylum seekers, adding to scrutiny from both domestic and international observers.

Merz, amid heckles and applause from various factions, indicated he might lean on potential votes from the AfD to push through his stronger proposals, confessing to discomfort at “jubilant and smirking” AfD members celebrating the momentum shift within German politics. Fielding critiques across the aisle, he retorted, “A right decision does not become wrong if the wrong people agree.”

Germany's impending elections have created fertile ground for political realignments, and how the immigration policy debates evolve could very well reshape the political terrain. Recent polls indicate pronounced shifts among the electorate, where the CDU remains at 28% support, closely trailed by the AfD at 20%. Scholars and political commentators alike warn the ramifications of these developments might permanently alter the political identity of Germany, reshaping how future generations perceive democracy itself.

Without doubt, the future of German politics hangs upon the decisions made leading to the upcoming elections and beyond, as various groups trot their campaigns under the looming pressure of public opinion and the persistent issue of immigration. How this fraught situation resolves remains uncertain, but one thing stands clear: the sparks ignited by yesterday’s vote will reverberate across Germany for years to come.