German Chancellor Olaf Scholz has sharply criticized opposition leader Friedrich Merz after the far-right Alternative für Deutschland (AfD) backed his controversial migration policy proposal. Scholz accused Merz of dismantling Germany’s political firewall against the far right, calling it an “unforgivable mistake” and warning of long-term consequences for democracy.
Merz submitted two non-binding motions in parliament, calling for tighter border security and stricter asylum policies. One of them, his “five-point plan” to curb irregular migration, passed narrowly with 348 votes in favor, 345 against, and 10 abstentions. The ruling Social Democrats (SPD) and the Greens strongly opposed the measure, arguing it contradicts both German and EU asylum laws.
Migration Debate Escalates Amid Security Concerns
Merz’s push for tougher immigration policies followed a knife attack by a rejected Afghan asylum seeker, in which two people were killed. The suspect had been receiving psychiatric treatment and was scheduled for deportation, but bureaucratic delays prevented his removal. The case reignited calls for tighter border controls, with Merz using the moment to push his reforms.
The issue gained further urgency after a recent attack in Magdeburg, where an SUV crashed into a Christmas market, killing six people. The suspect, a Saudi doctor, was arrested.
As Germany’s February 23 election approaches, Merz’s CDU/CSU bloc, currently leading in the polls, has taken a harder stance on migration, shifting the national debate further to the right. Critics argue that he is leveraging public fear to strengthen his position and attract conservative voters.
CDU Under Fire for Breaking Its Anti-AfD Commitment
In an intense parliamentary session, Scholz condemned Merz for relying on AfD votes to pass his motion. “You are working with those who undermine democracy, reject European unity, and fuel division in our country,” Scholz declared.
Deputy Chancellor Robert Habeck (Greens) also criticized Merz, warning: “Do not vote with racists. It is unnecessary and irresponsible.”
Merz dismissed the accusations, insisting that AfD’s support was not actively sought but ultimately unavoidable. “A right decision does not become wrong just because the wrong people support it,” he argued.
AfD leader Alice Weidel celebrated the outcome, declaring: “The so-called firewall against us was never anything more than an undemocratic power agreement.” She added that Merz’s migration plan “was taken straight from our playbook.”
Merz now plans to introduce a draft migration law on Friday, though it cannot become law before the election. If he secures the chancellorship, he is expected to move forward with the proposed changes.
Public Support for Merz Grows, but Church Leaders Warn of Dangerous Precedent
A new Insa poll found that 66% of Germans support Merz’s migration policy, including 56% of SPD voters. However, while the CDU/CSU and SPD have lost ground in recent polls, the AfD has gained four percentage points.
Germany’s Protestant and Catholic churches issued a joint letter warning against CDU’s willingness to accept AfD support. “Breaking this political taboo could cause lasting damage to German democracy,” the statement read.
The churches also criticized the tone and timing of the debate, warning it could fuel hostility toward migrants rather than addressing real policy challenges.
