The AfD, Germany’s most popular party, has criticized the designation, calling it “a severe blow” to democracy.
Germany’s intelligence agency has officially labeled the right-wing Alternative for Germany (AfD) as an “extremist” party, even though the AfD is currently leading in national polls.
In a Friday statement, the Federal Office for the Protection of the Constitution (BfV) stated that the AfD demonstrates numerous signs of acting against the fundamental democratic order and accused it of “disregarding human dignity.” This assessment was based on a thorough expert examination of the party’s actions, affiliations, and statements made by its members.
The core reason for the decision, according to the agency, is the party’s “understanding of people predominantly based on their ethnic descent.” The BfV claims that AfD leaders advocate for policies that exclude German citizens with immigrant backgrounds, especially Muslims, from fully participating in society. The report also highlighted the party’s use of phrases like “knife-wielding migrants” and its tendency to attribute violence to non-European ethnic groups.
“The constant incitement against refugees and migrants… encourages the spread and intensification of prejudice, resentment, and fears,” the BfV concluded.
AfD co-leaders Alice Weidel and Tino Chrupalla have denounced the decision, stating in a joint statement, “Today’s classification is a severe blow to German democracy. The AfD is the strongest party in current polls. Nevertheless, the AfD, as an opposition party, is now being publicly discredited and criminalized shortly before the change of government.”
Meanwhile, outgoing Chancellor Olaf Scholz cautioned against making any quick decisions about imposing restrictions on the party. When asked about potentially banning the AfD outright, Scholz said, “I think this is something that cannot be rushed into.”
The BfV’s statement follows a recent Forsa poll that indicated the AfD has 26% support, surpassing Germany’s Christian Democrats (25%) and the Social Democratic Party of Germany (15%). The AfD’s support has grown amid voter dissatisfaction with mainstream parties and increasing concerns about immigration and the economy.
Despite the AfD’s high poll numbers, the Christian Democrats won the federal election two months ago and have indicated they have no plans to cooperate with right-wing parties.
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