Germany’s parliament is set to vote on a migration bill that could pass with the support of the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party, fueling controversy ahead of the country’s upcoming election. The bill, introduced by opposition leader Friedrich Merz, calls for stricter migration policies, including limits on family reunions for certain migrants and expanded powers for federal police to carry out deportations.
Merz has placed immigration at the center of his campaign for the February 23 election, following a deadly knife attack by a rejected asylum-seeker. His approach has drawn criticism from political opponents, who accuse him of undermining the long-standing consensus among mainstream parties to reject cooperation with AfD. While Merz insists he has not and will not collaborate with the far-right, his party’s recent motions in parliament have gained AfD’s backing, raising concerns about shifting political dynamics.
Earlier this week, a nonbinding motion from Merz’s center-right Union bloc advocating for tighter border controls passed with AfD’s support, marking the first time legislation has advanced due to the far-right party’s votes. The move drew a rare public rebuke from former Chancellor Angela Merkel, highlighting divisions within the political establishment.
The proposed migration bill faces uncertain prospects, as it would require approval from Germany’s upper house, where state governments hold influence. However, its advancement has deepened tensions between Merz’s bloc and Chancellor Olaf Scholz’s governing coalition, which includes the Social Democrats and Greens.
With polls showing Merz’s party leading at around 30% and AfD in second place with 20%, concerns are growing over the possibility of far-right influence on future government decisions. While Merz has rejected accusations that he may work with AfD, the ongoing migration debate continues to shape Germany’s political landscape ahead of the election.