Former Chancellor Angela Merkel has strongly criticized Friedrich Merz, the leader of the Christian Democratic Union (CDU), for relying on the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) to pass a significant migration control motion. This unprecedented action marks the first time the CDU has sought AfD support to secure parliamentary approval, raising alarms about potential shifts within German politics.
The motion, which advocates for tougher immigration measures and faster deportations, passed on January 29, 2025, reflecting growing public concerns over immigration following violent incidents attributed to asylum seekers. Merz's move has been met with outrage, especially as he previously emphasized the importance of not engaging with extremist parties. "A correct decision doesn’t become wrong because the wrong people approve it," he asserted, attempting to justify his actions.
Merkel, who had served as CDU leader and Chancellor between 2005 and 2021, responded publicly for the first time since leaving office, labeling Merz's decision as "wrong." She underscored the importance of maintaining democratic integrity, stating, "I think it was wrong no longer to feel committed to this proposal... thereby, for the first time, to allow…" AfD votes to contribute to parliamentary majority.
This development occurs amid rising support for the AfD, which is polling closely behind the CDU; current surveys indicate they stand at around 20 percent. With national elections approaching on February 23, the political ramifications of this coalition have taken center stage. Critics argue such alliances could legitimize the far-right, paving the way for more substantial cooperation down the line.
Migration has become the prevailing theme of the upcoming campaign, made more pressing by recent attacks linked to suspects of immigrant backgrounds. The incidents heightened public anxiety and prompted calls for stricter immigration laws, which Merz has capitalized on by adopting more hardline stances compared to Merkel's historically cautious approach.
Following the January 29 vote, the Chancellor and his coalition partners, the Greens, expressed strong disapproval. Olaf Scholz commented on the breach of long-standing political norms, emphasizing the ramifications for governing structures and cooperative practices among mainstream parties. He reflected concerns shared by others, including Berlin's Mayor Kai Wegener, who stated, "With me - you can rely on it - there will never be cooperation or a coalition with the far-right."
Der Spiegel suggested the ramifications of Merz's actions would echo throughout the elections and possibly reshape German politics significantly. The publication's commentary pointed out the potential risk of Merz accelerating the normalization of extremist support within parliament.
Despite facing backlash, Merz defended his decision by arguing it was necessary to respond to public security concerns, exacerbated by incidents like the tragic knife attack on kindergarten children last week. He remarked, "The right to demonstrate only goes so far," indicating defensiveness against protests against his position taken by other party officials.
Merkel’s criticisms were echoed by several political figures, including Saskia Esken, co-leader of the Social Democrats (SPD), who praised her for highlighting the need for political responsibility. She noted Merkel's voice is still influential, reminding Merz of his commitments made just months earlier.
Moving forward, the CDU plans to introduce additional immigration legislation, aiming to restrict asylum rights and amplify border policing, with Merz likely seeking continued collaboration with the AfD. The situation continues to evolve, raising pressing questions about the future alignment of parties and the mainstream response to the AfD's increasing momentum.
The CDU faces stark options as it approaches the elections and navigates the potential repercussions of aligning with the AfD. Observers warn of dire consequences should the trend toward far-right normalization persist, destabilizing Germany's traditionally consensual politics. With Merkel’s legacy at stake, both Merz and the CDU must tread carefully amid growing public scrutiny and internal dissent.