Germany's AfD Party Unveils Controversial 'Radical' Election Manifesto

Sun Apr 12 2026 08:38:35 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

The far-right Alternative für Deutschland (AfD) party launches a provocative manifesto ahead of regional elections, aiming for a potential majority in Saxony-Anhalt, marking a historic milestone in German politics.

As the AfD gains traction in Saxony-Anhalt, it has adopted a radical manifesto that includes proposals for strict immigration policies, an overhaul of family support systems, and improved relations with Russia. The party's leading candidate, Ulrich Siegmund, emphasizes the significance of the upcoming elections. Critics warn of the authoritarian implications of the AfD's plans, which could deeply affect democracy in the region.

The far-right Alternative für Deutschland (AfD) party is riding high in the opinion polls in the eastern German state of Saxony-Anhalt and could win an outright majority in regional elections there in September. It would be the first time a far-right party has held power in a German state since World War Two.

This weekend the AfD officially adopted what has been described as a radical and pro-ethnic German government program for Saxony-Anhalt at a party conference in the central city of Magdeburg. The AfD's leading candidate in the state, Ulrich Siegmund, a TikTok star who was given a standing ovation by the delegates, said it was a historic moment, not just for Saxony-Anhalt.

The whole of Germany is watching this historic election, he told the conference. Parts of Europe are watching this historic election. Parts of the world are watching this historic election, because from here, finally, the political turnaround can also happen here in Germany.

Siegmund stated his party's audacity in addressing issues of safety and identity in Germany, asserting, Let's take back our country. The program, which is over 150 pages long, proposes significant overhauls including stringent immigration laws, promoting large families of German origin, and establishing better relations with Russia, which starkly contrasts with the federal coalition government's stance supporting Ukraine.

Notably, the manifesto calls for consistent deportations and policies favoring remigration, especially targeting Ukrainians, calling to stop recognizing them as war refugees. The platform, described as distinctly pro-Russian, seeks to end energy sanctions on Russia, contrary to much of European sentiment.

While some proposals appear impractical at the state level and could require federal action, many initiatives are directly feasible. However, critics, including the leader of the Linke Party, Eva von Angern, have condemned the AfD's plans as a potential nightmare scenario for democracy in Saxony-Anhalt, warning of authoritarian measures that might erode fundamental rights.

As Saxony-Anhalt represents a stronghold for the AfD, their influence is echoed throughout the nation, evidenced by their record presence in the last federal elections. Observers consider the AfD's manifesto indicative of its future agenda if it increases its power nationally.