Germany's far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) has unveiled a series of anti-migrant policies it intends to implement if it takes control of a state government. The proposals include reinstating border controls, deporting asylum seekers, and ending family reunification for refugees.
Key policy proposals
The AfD's state-level program, presented at a party convention in Erfurt, calls for the immediate deportation of all rejected asylum seekers and the establishment of transit zones at German borders. The party also wants to scrap the right to asylum for those entering from safe third countries.
According to the AfD's draft policy paper, the party aims to reduce immigration to "zero net migration" and to prioritize the deportation of criminal migrants. The proposals also include a ban on the construction of new mosques and the introduction of a "burqa ban" in public spaces.
Protests and opposition
The convention was met with mass protests, with thousands of demonstrators blocking roads and clashing with police. Police officers guarded the venue as protesters attempted to disrupt the event. The AfD's policies have been condemned by mainstream parties, including Chancellor Olaf Scholz's Social Democrats, who called them "unconstitutional and inhumane."
"The AfD's plans are a direct attack on our democratic values and the rule of law," said a spokesperson for the German Interior Ministry. "We will not allow the far-right to undermine our constitution."
Electoral context
The AfD is currently polling at around 20% nationally, making it the second-most popular party in Germany. It has already gained representation in 14 of 16 state parliaments and is hoping to win its first state government in the upcoming elections in eastern Germany, where support for the far-right is strongest.
Political analyst Dr. Anna Sauerbrey of the German Institute for International and Security Affairs noted: "The AfD's strategy is to radicalize its positions to mobilize its base, even if it alienates moderate voters. The question is whether other parties will continue to refuse coalition with them."
Reactions from migrant groups
Migrant advocacy groups have expressed alarm over the AfD's proposals. "These policies would create a climate of fear and discrimination," said Seda Başay-Yıldız, chairwoman of the Turkish Community in Germany. "We call on all democratic forces to stand together against this xenophobic agenda."
The AfD's rise comes amid growing anti-immigrant sentiment in Germany, fueled by the arrival of over 1 million asylum seekers since 2015. The party has capitalized on public concerns over crime, housing, and social welfare, blaming migrants for many of the country's problems.
