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Politics
31 January 2025

Germany's Immigration Bill Sparks Political Firestorm

Controversial support from far-right AfD threatens longstanding democratic norms as tensions rise ahead of elections.

Germany is bracing for significant political upheaval as immigration legislation ignites controversy, dividing parties well beyond traditional lines. Friedrich Merz, the leader of the Christian Democratic Union (CDU), has thrust the issue to the fore, attempting to navigate between public security fears and the political risks associated with courting far-right support.

On January 31, 2025, the Bundestag witnessed heated exchanges after the passage of a non-binding motion calling for stricter immigration controls. This motion, which alarmingly garnered support from the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD), has prompted widespread protests across the nation. Thousands took to the streets holding signs proclaiming "Shame on you" and "Friedrich Merz is a security risk for our democracy." This backlash indicates the depth of concern surrounding what many are viewing as the erosion of post-war political norms against collaborating with extremist factions.

Friedrich Merz defended his actions amid the storm of criticism, claiming, "A policy isn't wrong just because the 'wrong people back it.'" He pointed to increased public fears stemming from violent incidents linked to asylum seekers, such as the tragic knife attack last week on kindergarten children. His call for tighter immigration measures forms part of the CDU’s broader strategy as they prepare for the upcoming February 23 elections.

Chancellor Olaf Scholz did not hesitate to voice his condemnation, labeling the motion as "an unforgivable mistake." His comments reflect the longstanding agreement among democratic parties to uphold the 'firewall' against aligning with the AfD, particularly because of their extremist views. Referring to this cultural taboo, Scholz emphasized, "Since the founding of the Federal Republic of Germany, there has always been a clear consensus: we do not make common cause with the far right." His strong stance highlights the inherent dangers perceived by many political leaders of this shift toward the far-right.

Further complicity was noted as Angela Merkel, Germany’s former Chancellor, entered the fray with her critique of Merz's legislative tactics. For the first time, the CDU leader had opted to rely on votes from the AfD, prompting Merkel to express her disapproval, stating, "Democratic parties must work together honestly, moderately on the basis of applicable European law." This coming from Merkel—who oversaw the entry of over one million asylum seekers—suggests a significant shift away from her more progressive policies during her tenure.

The CDU's proposed measures under the forthcoming Immigration Bill would place substantial restrictions on family reunification rights for rejected asylum seekers, increasing police powers to detain undocumented migrants. Many critics state this new approach is not just politically risky but also legally questionable. Organizations including Amnesty International have denounced the bills, indicating they ”will only hurt the rights of refugees” and echoing sentiments shared by many human rights advocates engaged with the current atmosphere surrounding immigration.

The strong public response reflects the socio-political dynamic currently at play, with the AfD's rising popularity posing new challenges for traditional parties. Polls indicate their support hovering around 20%. This rise ties closely to security concerns flared by high-profile attacks where the suspects were asylum seekers, driving segments of the voting population toward right-leaning platforms. Merz's statements seem to signify his attempt to siphon off AfD support, but it remains to be seen if this aligns well with the CDU's traditional voter base, which remains wary of the AfD's extremist ideologies.

Being at the crossroads of drastic political change, the CDU under Merz is courting potential immediate backlash from moderate voters, jeopardizing broader support. The gamble to align more closely with the far-right necessitates reconciling his current strategy of attracting nationalists with the potential loss of centrist allegiance.

February's election promises to be more than just a crucible for domestic policies; it foreshadows potential shifts within German politics as parties negotiate future coalitions. The fallout from this immigration bill debate could reverberate well beyond the electoral outcome, affecting how Germany perceives and navigates its historical responsibilities concerning immigration and human rights.

The public sentiment, as demonstrated through protests and political debates, suggests unease as the remnants of Merkel's policies clash with the current CDU leadership's strategy, representing the tensions within contemporary German society. These dynamics reflect one of the foundational struggles of modern Germany, as voters grapple with balancing security needs with democratic integrity.

Whether Merz's tactics will benefit his party or give the AfD more legitimacy remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: the upcoming vote on the Immigration Bill is expected to draw more lines than just those around policy, as it shakes the very groundwork of German political discourse.

Germany stands on the brink of possible transformation, wrestling with both its historical legacy and present dilemmas.