In a dramatic shift in German political discourse, Friedrich Merz, the frontrunner in the chancellor race, has opened the door to possible collaboration with the far-right party, Alternative for Germany (AfD), on new immigration legislation. This development follows a tragic knife attack in Bavaria that resulted in two fatalities, including a small child, and has sparked discussions about the country’s migration policies.
The incident, which involved a mentally ill Afghan immigrant, has shifted the narrative from an economically focused campaign to a heated debate surrounding immigration and border security. Merz, head of the center-right Christian Democrats, is keen to exhibit his party’s resolve in implementing strict measures to control Germany's borders and facilitate the deportation of migrants identified for removal.
Historically, major political parties in Germany have maintained a “firewall” around the AfD to prevent its acceptance into mainstream politics due to its controversial rhetoric reminiscent of Nazi ideology. However, as the AfD surges in the polls and is currently second only to Merz’s Christian Democrats, the strategy of exclusion may be reevaluated.
With the presidential election set for February 23, the political landscape is witnessing a rapid transformation, raising questions about the future direction of Germany's immigration policy and the implications of Merz's potential collaboration with far-right factions.
