German mainstream scrambles to thwart rising popularity of the far right | DW News

Summary

In Germany, a surge of protests has erupted against the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party, sparked by controversial remarks on mass deportations reminiscent of Nazi policies. Activists have illuminated Berlin's Brandenburg Gate, spelling 'never again is now' to oppose extremism. Despite growing opposition, the AfD maintains strong support, especially in Eastern Germany. The government, led by Chancellor Olaf Scholz, faces challenges in countering this rise, with options like banning the party or cutting its funding being debated. Legal constraints and the party's electoral success pose significant hurdles, prompting a broader discussion on strategies to combat right-wing extremism and sway public opinion towards democratic values.

Takeaways

• 📈 There is growing opposition in Germany against the far-right AfD (Alternative for Germany) party, highlighted by protests and vigils against extremist violence.
• 🕯 Activists organized a vigil at Berlin's Brandenburg Gate with lanterns spelling out 'never again is now', a reference to the opposition against Nazi crimes.
• 🚫 Some pressure groups and politicians are advocating for a ban on the AfD or cutting off its funding due to its extremist views and discussions resembling Nazi-era policies.
• 🇩🇪 Nationwide protests have erupted in Germany, driven by the AfD's discussions on mass deportations and its rising popularity, despite warnings from the government.
• 🔍 Chancellor Olaf Scholz has publicly condemned right-wing extremists for attacking democracy, amidst the AfD's strong polling numbers, especially in Eastern Germany.
• ⚖️ Legal challenges to ban the AfD have been considered, but Germany's high legal standards and previous court decisions make such moves difficult.
• 👥 The AfD's youth wing could be more easily banned as it's classified as right-wing extremist, but this would not directly impact the AfD's overall operations.
• 💡 Efforts to reduce the influence of radical individuals within the AfD, like B. Höcke, through petitions and potential political bans, are being explored.
• 🔄 Political analysts suggest shifting the political focus away from immigration to reduce the AfD's appeal, as its support has nearly doubled since the last federal election.
• 🇪🇺 Internationally, the AfD's radical stance is causing friction with other European right-wing parties, indicating a potential isolation within the broader right-wing populist movement.

Q & A

What event took place at Berlin's Brandenburg Gate in opposition to the AfD party?

Activists staged a vigil for victims of extremist violence, lit by lanterns at Berlin's Brandenburg Gate, spelling out 'never again' as a reference to Nazi crimes.

What sparked the outcry against the Alternative for Germany (AfD) party?

The outcry was sparked by reports of a meeting involving some AfD members where mass deportations of people of foreign origin were discussed, echoing policies from Germany's Nazi past.

What is Chancellor Olaf Scholz's stance on right-wing extremism?

Chancellor Olaf Scholz issued a warning, stating clearly that right-wing extremists are attacking democracy and aiming to destroy cohesion.

What are the current levels of support for the AfD, according to recent polls?

Recent polls show that the AfD has the support of 22% of people, placing it in second place behind the conservatives and well ahead of the parties in the current coalition government.

What legal actions are being considered against the AfD?

Considered actions include banning the party outright or cutting off its state funding, based on a recent court decision that opened up this possibility.

Why is banning the AfD's youth wing considered an easier option?

Banning the AfD's youth wing, classified as right-wing extremist by authorities, is seen as easier because it's an association, not a political party, allowing the interior minister to issue a decree to ban it.

What challenges exist in banning the AfD as a party?

The challenge lies in the high hurdles set by Germany's rule of law, requiring proof that the party is actively working against the Constitution, and a super majority ruling by the court.

What strategies are other parties considering to win back voters from the AfD?

Other parties are considering shifting focus away from immigration, which is currently framed as a major problem, to other policy areas that deserve attention.

How has the AfD's radical stance affected its relations with other European right-wing parties?

The AfD's increasingly radical stance has led to potential isolation, even from other European right-wing parties, as highlighted by Marine Le Pen's threat to end their joint EU parliamentary group.

What does the involvement of prominent AfD members in extremist ideologies and actions indicate about the party's direction?

The involvement of prominent members in extremist ideologies and actions indicates that the AfD has become more radical over time, diverging from the strategy of other right-wing parties in Europe to appeal to a broader electorate.