Hundreds of demonstrators gathered outside the Christian Democratic Union (CDU) headquarters in Berlin. They protested against strict migration policies that passed with support from the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD). Amnesty International, Seebrücke, and other human rights groups organized the rally under the slogan “Firewall instead of arson.” Activists warned that CDU’s actions could normalize far-right influence in German politics.
CDU Pushes for Tougher Border Controls
CDU leader Friedrich Merz introduced new migration policies that call for tighter border security and stricter asylum rules. He argues these changes are essential for national security. However, critics say the CDU broke its promise to never work with the far-right.
Tensions escalated after a rejected Afghan asylum seeker killed a man and a two-year-old child in a knife attack. In response, Merz pushed two motions in parliament. The first proposed turning back more asylum seekers at Germany’s borders. It passed by a narrow margin of 348 to 345, with 10 abstentions. The far-right AfD voted in favor, sparking outrage.
The second motion aimed to expand security powers and migration reforms. However, parliament rejected it.
Political Fallout and AfD Controversy
The CDU’s willingness to accept AfD support has rocked German politics. The party had long promised to block far-right influence. Many now accuse CDU leaders of breaking that pledge.
“We are shocked because the CDU deliberately passed a motion with AfD votes. This sets a dangerous precedent,” said Wiebke Judith, a spokesperson for ProAsyl, Germany’s largest pro-immigration group. “This weakens the firewall that protects Germany from authoritarianism and fascism.”
Merz defended the decision, saying, “A right decision does not become wrong just because the wrong people agree. It remains right.”
CDU Gains in Polls as Elections Near
Germany is set for national elections in a few weeks after Chancellor Olaf Scholz’s three-party coalition collapsed. Recent polls show the CDU leading with 30% support, while the AfD holds 20%. Meanwhile, Scholz’s Social Democrats (SPD) and the Greens continue to lose ground.
With growing concern over migration in Europe, CDU leaders are taking a harder stance to attract conservative voters. However, critics warn that relying on AfD votes could push Germany’s politics toward extremism.