Large-scale protests erupted across Germany on Sunday, fueled by anger over the centre-right leader Friedrich Merz's decision to collaborate with the far-right Alternative für Deutschland (AfD) on immigration policies. Protesters condemned Merz's proposal for stricter border controls as a betrayal of the unwritten post-Nazi promise among German democratic parties to never align with far-right forces.
Thousands of protesters took to the streets across Germany on Sunday to express their outrage over the decision by Friedrich Merz , the frontrunner in the upcoming federal election, to collaborate with the far-right Alternative für Deutschland (AfD) party on migration policies. Merz , the leader of the centre-right Christian Democratic Union ( CDU ), proposed nonbinding motions in parliament advocating for stricter border controls and a significant reduction in irregular migration.
This move sparked widespread condemnation, as it was perceived as a breach of the unwritten post-Nazi promise among German democratic parties to never align with far-right forces.Protesters converged in major German cities, including Berlin, Cologne, Hamburg, Leipzig, and Munich, carrying banners and chanting slogans against Merz and the CDU's collaboration with the AfD. The turnout in Berlin alone was estimated to be between 160,000 and 200,000 people, with hundreds temporarily blocking CDU offices across the country. In Cologne, a particularly striking display of dissent saw hundreds of protesters gather on 350 boats along the Rhine River, forming a flotilla of defiance in front of the city's skyline.Merz's proposal, driven by a desire to appear resolute on immigration following a recent knife attack perpetrated by a rejected asylum seeker, has ignited a fierce debate about the far right's influence in German politics. Critics argue that Merz's willingness to work with the AfD, even in a nonbinding capacity, erodes the existing firewall against extremism and normalizes far-right ideologies. Merz maintains that his stance remains unchanged and that he does not and will not cooperate with the AfD on any legislative initiatives. However, the controversy underscores the complex challenges facing German democracy as it navigates a rise in populism and far-right sentiment
GERMANY POLITICS PROTESTS IMMIGRATION AFD MERZ CDU FAR RIGHT
Australia Latest News, Australia Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Thousands Protest in South Korea as Impeached President Awaits ArrestProtests have erupted in South Korea following the historic impeachment of President Yoon Suk Yeol. Thousands took to the streets, divided between those supporting and opposing the ousted leader. Police are on high alert, attempting to maintain order as the standoff continues. President Yoon remains holed up in his residence, awaiting the expiration of a warrant issued by anti-corruption investigators.
Read more »
Thousands Protest in Seoul as Deadline Approaches for Yoon Suk Yeol Arrest WarrantThousands of protesters took to the streets of Seoul, South Korea, amidst heavy snow, demanding the arrest of suspended President Yoon Suk Yeol. Meanwhile, his supporters rallied against the warrant, raising tensions as the deadline for its validity approaches.
Read more »
Tens of Thousands Protest in Slovakia Against Fico's Russia-Leaning PoliciesTens of thousands of protesters rallied in Bratislava and across Slovakia, opposing Prime Minister Robert Fico's policies perceived as moving closer to Russia. The demonstrations, estimated at 60,000 in Bratislava alone, criticized Fico's government for weakening democratic values and shifting foreign policy away from the EU and NATO allies.
Read more »
Australia Day 2025: Thousands Protest at 'Invasion Day' RalliesThousands gathered in capital cities across Australia for 'Invasion Day' protests and events, marking Australia Day with calls for truth-telling, resistance, mourning, and solidarity with Indigenous Australians. Demonstrations took place in Sydney's Haymarket and Melbourne's CBD, disrupting traffic and drawing large crowds.
Read more »
Tens of Thousands Protest 'Invasion Day' Across AustraliaThousands of demonstrators marched in major Australian cities on January 26, marking the anniversary of the First Fleet's arrival in 1788, calling for justice and rights for Indigenous people and denouncing the day as 'Invasion Day'.
Read more »
Tens of Thousands Protest Across Australia on Invasion Day, Calling for Justice and ReconciliationThousands gathered in major Australian cities on January 26th to mark the day with protests, reflection, and solidarity with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. Rallies focused on calls for justice, recognition, and reparations as demonstrators rallied against the celebration of Australia Day.
Read more »