Germany is facing increasing tensions as conservative leader Friedrich Merz navigates a fraught political atmosphere just weeks before national elections. Demonstrators flocked to Berlin on Sunday, protesting against the growing ties between the Christian Democratic Union (CDU) and the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD), raising alarms about what many perceive as the breach of long-standing conventions against far-right collaboration.
The protests, which witnessed participation from at least 160,000 people, according to police estimates, were organized to condemn the CDU’s recent parliamentary motions backed by the AfD. Protest rallies were ignited after the CDU voted alongside the AfD on non-binding resolutions about immigration, which many see as a significant shift from traditional post-war German political norms.
Friedrich Merz, who is seen as the frontrunner to become Germany’s next chancellor, has taken the controversial stance of seeking support from the far-right party to bolster his party’s narrative on immigration control. While he has ruled out forming any formal coalition with the AfD, Merz’s recent actions have sparked restlessness within the public and the political elite alike. He asserted, "A right decision doesn't become wrong just because the wrong people agree to it," defending his approach as necessary amid rising concerns over migration.
Critics argue this strategy undermines the historical barriers erected since the end of World War II, where cooperation with far-right parties was largely taboo. Organizers of the protests emphasized the importance of safeguarding democracy, with participant Anna Schwarz stating, "We can no longer avert our gaze." Many are calling for mainstream parties to uphold democratic standards and protect against extremist influences.
The CDU faces significant scrutiny as it prepares for its party conference less than three weeks before the February 23 elections. Amid discussions of permanent border controls and provisions to allow police to turn back migrants, the atmosphere remains charged. The CDU’s polling shows them leading at approximately 30%, with the AfD close behind, leading many to question the optics of CDU’s overtures to the extreme right.
The recent decision to engage with the AfD came after parliamentary votes where the CDU relied on AfD support for changes to immigration laws. This move followed increasing public demand for stricter migration policies, partly fueled by high-profile crimes linked to migrants. Angela Merkel, Merz’s predecessor, has voiced her concerns, highlighting Merz’s apparent about-face on past pledges to keep the far right at bay. She voiced strong criticism, stating his approach could send troubling signals about the CDU’s values and commitment to democratic principles.
Meanwhile, opposition to the CDU's strategy has been fierce. Tens of thousands rallied on the streets, expressing their outrage and fears of the rising influence of the AfD. This level of public mobilization indicates how deeply rooted concerns about the far-right’s impact on German society remain. Many demonstrators have emphasized the historical lessons learned from Germany’s past and the importance of preventing history from repeating itself.
Protesters gathered outside the Bundestag, Germany's parliament, marching toward the CDU headquarters to express their dissent. They called on political leaders to preserve the democratic fabric of the country, underscoring their resolve for action against any moves perceived as compromising democratic values.
Friedrich Merz’s strategic gamble is becoming increasingly precarious as the February elections approach. With polls indicating the CDU's potential for victory, analysts analyze the long-term consequences of aligning with far-right sentiments. The urgency felt by the demonstrators suggests there may be potential repercussions for parties perceived as straying too close to extremist views. The outcome of these elections could redefine the political and ethical contours of Germany’s future.
The growing dissent against the CDU shows how vigilant the electorate is about the balance of power and the political messaging being circulated as part of the campaign. Observers note the palpable tension between ensuring security through migration reform and the risk of fostering divisiveness through collaboration with far-right groups.
With election day drawing near, internal and external pressures continue to shape this key chapter of German political history. The interplay between voter sentiment and party dynamics will undeniable influence the outcome, as both Merz's CDU and the opposing factions grapple with the consequences of the past and the aspirations for their political futures.