BERLIN – Friedrich Merz, leader of Germany’s opposition CDU/CSU alliance, announced plans to introduce controversial migration measures in parliament next week, sparking criticism over potential indirect cooperation with the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD). Merz, who has ruled out formal alliances with the AfD, faces accusations of jeopardizing democratic norms weeks before the February 23 federal election.
Merz’s proposals include granting federal police authority to request arrest warrants for irregular migrants and pledging to close Germany’s land borders to illegal migration. While his stance aims to attract voters from the AfD, critics, including leaders from the Social Democrats (SPD) and Greens, warn that the move risks breaking the unwritten “firewall” against far-right collaboration.
Analysts suggest Merz’s strategy could backfire, potentially exposing divisions within his party. The proposals are unlikely to pass without support from the AfD or significant concessions, raising concerns over political and constitutional integrity. The debate highlights Germany’s growing polarization on migration issues ahead of the pivotal election.