Germany’s domestic intelligence agency has designated Alternative für Deutschland (AfD) as a right-wing extremist party, citing its “ethnicity- and ancestry-based understanding of people” as incompatible with the free democratic order. The decision comes despite the party’s recent election success, winning 152 seats in the parliament.
The AfD’s joint leaders described the move as “clearly politically motivated” and a “severe blow to German democracy”. However, acting Interior Minister Nancy Faeser stated that the agency had made a clear and unambiguous decision with no political influence.
The party’s popularity is highest in eastern Germany, where it has been placed under observation for suspected extremism. The agency’s decision could lead to increased surveillance of the party and potentially even a ban, although this would require parliamentary approval.
German politicians have expressed concern about the AfD’s ideology, which includes anti-immigrant and nationalist views. Some have called for the party to be banned, citing its threat to social harmony and democracy. The debate highlights tensions within Germany’s political landscape and the ongoing challenge of addressing extremism.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cwy6zk9wkrdo