Massive Protests in Germany After Right-Wing Party Discusses Deportation of Immigrants
Germany was rocked by massive protests over the weekend as thousands took to the streets to voice their opposition to the right-wing Alternative for Germany (AfD) party. The demonstrations were sparked by a report published by investigative journalism group Correctiv, which revealed that AfD had discussed the deportation of millions of immigrants, including German citizens, during a meeting with the Identitarian Movement (IM) in November.
According to the report, IM member Martin Sellner presented a plan for “re-migration” of immigrants who have failed to integrate into German society, even those who already hold citizenship. The meeting, allegedly captured on hidden cameras, has caused a stir in the country, with many drawing comparisons to the policies of the Nazi regime.
While AfD has confirmed the meeting took place, they vehemently deny that it reflects their party policy. A spokesperson for AfD stated, “The AfD won’t change its position on immigration policy because of a single opinion at a non-AfD meeting.” However, the revelations have fueled calls for a ban on the party.
Protesters across Germany gathered in cities like Frankfurt, Hamburg, Stuttgart, Nuremberg, and Hannover, wielding signs that read “Never Again is Now,” “Defend Democracy,” and “Against Hate.” The demonstration in Frankfurt alone drew around 35,000 people, while Hamburg saw approximately 50,000 protesters. However, concerns over crowd size prompted an early end to the Hamburg protest.
The wave of protests is set to continue, with large demonstrations planned in Berlin and Munich on Sunday. The report and subsequent public outcry have reignited the debate surrounding the AfD’s role in German politics and have further polarized the nation.
The AfD, founded in 2013, has gained significant support in recent years. Polling suggests that the party currently enjoys around 23% support in the country. In 2019, AfD became the first right-wing party since the Nazis to win a mayoral and district council election. The party has also made substantial gains in state elections in Bavaria and Hesse.
German Chancellor Olaf Scholz has been vocal in his condemnation of both AfD and the Identitarian Movement. In a statement on social media, he compared them to the Third Reich, emphasizing that Germany protects everyone, regardless of their origin or skin color. However, Scholz himself has acknowledged the challenges posed by immigration, stating that “too many are coming.”
The protests and public outrage over AfD’s alleged deportation plans have once again brought the issue of immigration to the forefront of German politics. As the nation grapples with the complexities of integration and national identity, the future of the AfD and its role in shaping Germany’s political landscape remains uncertain.
In a country scarred by its history, these protests serve as a powerful reminder of the importance of defending democracy and standing against hate. The voices of thousands of Germans united in their rejection of divisive policies send a clear message: never again will they allow such ideologies to take hold.