Germany's Far-Right AfD Adopts 'Radical' Manifesto Ahead of Key Polls
Germany's far-right Alternative für Deutschland (AfD) party has officially adopted what is described as a 'radical' and pro-ethnic German government programme for Saxony-Anhalt. This comes as the party enjoys a significant lead in opinion polls for the upcoming regional elections in September, where it could secure an outright majority – a first for a far-right party in a German state since the Second World War.
AfD's Vision for Saxony-Anhalt
The 150-page programme, ratified at a party conference in Magdeburg, outlines extensive plans for Saxony-Anhalt. Key proposals include a severe clampdown on immigration, explicit support for large families of German origin, and a significant shift in foreign policy, advocating for improved relations with Russia, directly opposing federal government policy.
Ulrich Siegmund, the AfD's leading candidate in the state, emphasised the historical significance of the moment, stating, "The whole of Germany is watching this historic election… from here, finally, the political turnaround can also happen here in Germany." He highlighted the party's intent to address perceived societal failings, articulating a sentiment that Germans no longer feel safe or at home in their own country.
Controversial Policies and National Implications
The manifesto explicitly calls for "consistent deportations" and "remigration," a controversial term referring to the mass removal of people with 'non-German' backgrounds. It also seeks to end the recognition of Ukrainians as war refugees and advocates for lifting sanctions against Russia, proposing increased Russian language education in schools.
Critics, such as Eva von Angern of the left-wing Linke Party, have condemned the AfD's plans as a "nightmare scenario for Saxony-Anhalt and for our democracy," warning of an authoritarian state that would curtail fundamental rights. While some proposals may require federal action, many are feasible at the state level.
Saxony-Anhalt is an AfD stronghold, reflecting broader support for the party across Germany. The state's branch of the AfD was classified as a "far-right extremist organisation" in 2023, with national observers suggesting this programme indicates the party's wider ambitions should it gain more power across the country.
