Thousands of people took to the streets in Berlin to protest against a breach of post-war German politics, as some parties voted alongside the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) on immigration issues. The protests, which drew an estimated 160,000 people, come three weeks before national elections and follow similar demonstrations across Germany.
The rallies were sparked by Christian Democratic Union (CDU) leader Friedrich Merz’s attempts to rely on AfD support for a bill aimed at curbing immigration. Merz had tried to use the party’s backing twice last week, but his move was widely condemned. The CDU is leading in the polls ahead of the snap election this month.
On Wednesday, a non-binding motion on changes to immigration law passed through parliament, while a bill to reduce immigration numbers and family reunion rights was rejected by 350 votes to 338 just two days later. The strategy was seen as a breach of Germany’s agreement not to work with far-right parties at the national level.
Protesters argue that the CDU’s actions are making “too much noise” in an attempt to undermine democracy. Anna Schwarz, a protester, said: “We want to make as much noise as possible to call for the self-described ‘democratic’ parties to protect this democracy.” Merz has ruled out any kind of coalition with AfD, but his actions have sparked controversy and raised concerns about the future of German politics.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cpqlyr02125o