Tens of thousands of demonstrators gathered in Berlin to protest perceived violations of post-war German political norms.
Protesters were outraged after several parties voted alongside the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) on an immigration resolution. Christian Democratic Union (CDU) leader Friedrich Merz sought support from the AfD twice last week. One attempt involved a bill aimed at reducing immigration.
Organizers of the protest said demonstrators condemned breaking Germany’s informal agreement to avoid cooperation with far-right groups. The protests occurred three weeks before national elections and followed nationwide rallies over the weekend.
Demonstrators Demand Action
Police reported that approximately 160,000 people participated in the protests on Sunday. The rally began near the Bundestag and proceeded toward CDU headquarters.
Anna Schwarz, a 34-year-old protester, attended her first political rally, saying, “We can no longer look away.” She emphasized making noise to pressure “democratic” parties to protect Germany’s democratic foundations.
Polls show the CDU leading ahead of Germany’s snap election, with the AfD polling second. Merz, however, has rejected any coalition with the AfD.
On Wednesday, a non-binding motion related to immigration law passed in Germany’s parliament. Two days later, a bill proposed by the CDU to reduce immigration numbers was narrowly defeated, with 350 votes against and 338 in favor. The bill had AfD backing.
Backlash and Defense
Merz’s strategy faced widespread criticism. Former chancellor Angela Merkel condemned him for breaking the CDU’s commitment to avoid collaboration with the far-right.
Merz defended his decisions, calling them “necessary” and denying that he sought AfD support. “A right decision doesn’t become wrong because the wrong people agree to it,” he stated.