Germany has faced a major political event as Friedrich Merz, leader of the opposition CDU, lost a key vote in the Bundestag to limit migration. This defeat could impact the upcoming German elections on February 23, shifting the balance of power.Merz’s bill aimed to reduce migration following a series of attacks linked to migrants, including a tragic incident in Bavaria where a two-year-old child and a passerby were killed. Despite support from the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD), not all CDU and FDP members backed the proposal, leading to its rejection.
This vote sparked nationwide protests, as Merz had previously promised no cooperation with the AfD. Former Chancellor Angela Merkel openly criticized Merz’s decision, which was unusual for her, given her history of avoiding current political debates. The vote also led to backlash from public figures, including TV host Michel Friedmann leaving the CDU and Holocaust survivor Albrecht Weinberg returning his Order of Merit.
The AfD, founded in 2013, has shifted from a Eurosceptic stance to a far-right position, advocating for strict migration controls and even mass deportations. The party has gained popularity, particularly in East Germany, and recently won elections in Thuringia. It also opposes the EU and supports ending sanctions against Russia.
Merz initially aimed to reduce AfD support but has instead seen its popularity grow. Critics accuse him of breaking a political taboo by aligning with the AfD, potentially normalizing cooperation with the far-right. Similar incidents have occurred in state-level politics, such as in Thuringia when an FDP member was elected prime minister with CDU and AfD votes, leading to national controversy and Merkel’s intervention.
With elections approaching, it remains unclear how this political shift will affect Merz, the CDU, and the AfD. The migration debate has now become a central issue in Germany’s political landscape, potentially shaping the future government.