Right-wing extremism is noted to be escalating within the Alternative for Germany (AfD) party, according to Söder's observations. - Increasing Right-wing Extremist Tendencies Detected within the AFD in the Southern Region
The latest polls indicate a shifting political landscape in Germany, with the Alternative für Deutschland (AfD) currently holding 25% support, marking its highest rating since mid-May. This puts the far-right party just behind the Union (CDU and CSU), which remains at 27%.
However, the AfD's classification as a "definitely right-wing extremist" party by Germany's domestic intelligence agency (BfV) has sparked heated public debate about banning the party. The SPD, a major coalition partner, remains highly skeptical of cooperating with the AfD due to its extremist nature, and the CDU/CSU's stance is divided.
The surge in far-right extremist activity in Germany has mirrored the AfD's growth. In 2024, there was a 23% increase in individuals linked to far-right extremism, many of whom are connected to the AfD’s growing membership of around 20,000 extremists. Far-right motivated crimes have also jumped significantly, raising concerns that the AfD’s extremist ideology is fueling radicalization and violence.
CSU leader Markus Söder has ruled out any cooperation with the AfD at the moment, stating that the party would need a fundamental change in personnel, content, style, and tone, and exclude many people to be considered a coalition partner. Söder has criticized the "constant panic" in Germany and believes the AfD is being strengthened by constant talk and focus.
Other polling institutes have shown the AfD slightly below the current 25%, with the SPD holding 15%, the Left party at 10%, and the Greens at 11%. The political landscape in Germany continues to evolve, with parties grappling to find a unified approach on how to handle the AfD's entrenched extremist stance in mainstream politics.
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- Amidst the ongoing debate about the AfD's future in German politics, EC countries are closely monitoring the situation due to the party's extremist ideology and potential impact on employment policy, as highlighted in policy-and-legislation discussions.
- The increased presence and influence of the AfD in German politics, driven by extremist membership, has politically polarized the nation, making it challenging to formulate cohesive employment policies amid the general news of far-right unrest and crime.
