Germany’s far-right Alternative für Deutschland (AfD) party has finalized its election manifesto ahead of next month’s critical polls, proposing a series of deeply divisive policies on issues such as migration, education, and the economy. The document calls for the mass deportation of migrants and threatens to abolish the euro, in addition to reintroducing military conscription and reforming the media financing system.
The AfD’s two-day convention was disrupted by widespread protests and blockades, with over 10,000 demonstrators taking part. Despite this, the party endorsed its co-leader Alice Weidel as chancellor candidate, and Musk’s endorsement has emboldened the far-right party. The AfD claims that only they can save Germany from climate ideology and wokeness.
The party’s manifesto also includes proposals to reduce financial support for unemployed people and increase stress on domestic security. Critics have accused the AfD of adopting slogans from the Nazi era, while historians have raised concerns about Weidel’s claim that Hitler was wrongly framed as a fascist.
The AfD has little chance of getting into government, with mainstream parties ruling out cooperation. However, its claims of being a “firewall” against main parties have resonated with some right-wing circles in Europe. The party’s unlikely endorsement by US billionaire Elon Musk has further boosted its image, despite the latter’s anti-American record in the past.
The election is seen as crucial for Germany’s future direction, with polls suggesting the AfD may increase its poll rating to 22%. The Social Democrats, Greens, and BSW parties are expected to maintain their current standings, while the far-left Die Linke and pro-business FDP parties are at risk of failing to meet the 5% threshold to enter parliament.
Source: https://www.theguardian.com/world/2025/jan/12/afd-launches-manifesto-as-campaign-season-for-german-election-begins