Germany’s parliament has voted against a proposed immigration bill supported by the conservative opposition and the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party. The vote, held on Friday, saw the bill defeated by 350 votes to 338, sparking political tensions and public protests across the country.
A Divisive Immigration Proposal
The immigration bill, put forward by the Christian Democratic Union (CDU), aimed to reduce the number of migrants allowed into Germany. It also sought to limit family reunification rights for asylum seekers. The proposal was controversial from the start, with strong opposition from Chancellor Olaf Scholz’s Social Democrats (SPD) and other parties in the ruling coalition.
CDU leader Friedrich Merz defended the bill, arguing that tougher immigration laws were necessary to address public concerns over migration. However, his decision to rely on votes from the far-right AfD party caused a major backlash.
Merz Faces Criticism for AfD Support
Merz’s decision to align with AfD votes drew sharp criticism from political leaders, including former chancellor Angela Merkel. She accused him of breaking a pledge not to cooperate with the far-right in the Bundestag. Chancellor Scholz also condemned the move, calling it an “unforgivable mistake.”
The AfD, known for its hardline stance on immigration, has been classified as a right-wing extremist group by German intelligence agencies. Many mainstream parties refuse to work with them. Despite this, Merz insisted that he did not seek the AfD’s support, stating that a “right decision doesn’t become wrong just because the wrong people agree to it.”
Public Outrage and Protests
Merz’s actions sparked protests across Germany. Thousands of people took to the streets on Thursday night to express their opposition to any cooperation between the CDU and the far-right. Demonstrators held signs and chanted slogans denouncing the AfD’s influence in German politics.
The issue has further divided public opinion ahead of Germany’s upcoming snap elections. The CDU is currently leading in the polls, with the AfD in second place. However, Merz has repeatedly ruled out forming a coalition with the AfD, despite relying on their votes for this bill.
Election Impact and Rising Tensions
The debate over immigration has intensified in Germany following several fatal attacks involving asylum seekers. The most recent case in Aschaffenburg has reignited fears over migrant-related crime. The issue has become central to political campaigns, with parties taking opposing stances on migration policy.
Merz’s strategy of appealing to AfD voters risks alienating moderate CDU supporters. Some within his party worry that aligning with the far-right, even indirectly, could damage the CDU’s reputation. Meanwhile, Chancellor Scholz’s coalition continues to push for more balanced immigration policies.
Germany’s History of Rejecting Far-Right Influence
For over 75 years, Germany’s democratic parties have maintained a strong stance against cooperating with the far-right. This principle was reinforced after World War II to prevent extremist ideologies from gaining power again.
Merkel reminded lawmakers that Merz had previously agreed to work with the SPD and Greens to pass legislation, not the AfD. She described this commitment as an act of “great state political responsibility.” Many political analysts now question whether Merz’s recent actions have undermined this long-standing democratic consensus.
What Happens Next?
The defeat of the immigration bill does not mean the issue is resolved. The CDU is expected to introduce new proposals, likely with stricter language to appeal to conservative voters. However, any future attempts to pass similar laws will likely face resistance unless the party distances itself from the AfD.
With German elections approaching, Germany’s political landscape remains uncertain. The outcome will determine how the country handles immigration in the years ahead. One thing is clear: the debate over migration, national security, and political alliances is far from over.