In an unexpected and sharp critique, former German Chancellor Angela Merkel has expressed her disapproval of her center-right Christian Democratic Union (CDU) for working alongside the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) to pass a controversial migration policy in parliament.
Merkel’s remarks, made public on January 29, follow a parliamentary vote that saw CDU leader Friedrich Merz collaborating with the AfD to support a motion that advocates for stricter border controls and the return of more migrants. The motion passed by a narrow margin, with the backing of the AfD crucial to its approval.
During the session, Merz had previously stated that the CDU would not align with the AfD on migration-related measures ahead of the February 23 elections. However, Merkel rebuked this position, declaring, “I think it was wrong to no longer feel bound by this proposal.”
The motion, while nonbinding, calls for enhanced border security and stronger measures to curb migration into Germany. Its passage, secured by three votes with AfD support, has sparked debate across the political spectrum, deepening divisions within the CDU. The party’s cooperation with the AfD, which is known for its anti-immigration and nationalist views, has raised concerns over its potential to alienate moderates and damage the CDU’s reputation.
Merkel, who led Germany from 2005 to 2021, has largely remained out of the political spotlight since stepping down from office. Her rare intervention now casts light on the growing tensions within her party and raises questions about the future direction of the CDU in the wake of shifting political alliances.
The far-right AfD, which has gained increasing support amid rising fears over migration, played a crucial role in the vote. While the motion is nonbinding, its passing with AfD backing signals a potential shift in Germany’s political landscape, as the CDU grapples with the challenge of balancing its traditional centrist identity with the increasing influence of far-right ideologies.
The controversy surrounding the vote comes at a critical time for the CDU, ahead of the upcoming February 23 elections. Merkel’s warning highlights the party’s internal struggle as it attempts to navigate its relationship with the AfD, whose rhetoric on migration and nationalism has become more pronounced in recent years.
In a statement following the vote, Merz defended the motion, emphasizing the CDU’s commitment to addressing concerns over migration and border security. However, his decision to secure AfD backing has left many questioning the party’s ideological direction and its ability to maintain unity in the face of rising populist sentiment.
As Germany prepares for its next election, the fallout from this parliamentary motion is likely to influence both the CDU’s internal dynamics and the broader political discourse surrounding immigration in the country.
