Mass protests erupt in Germany as AfD eyes breakthrough in eastern states
A massive turnout in Erfurt, Germany saw protesters actively blocking access to the AfD's annual conference, showcasing a strong opposition to the far-right party's agenda. The AfD's lead in national opinion polls and its upcoming eastern state election objectives raise alarms over its increasing power. Mainstream parties continue to adopt a strategy of isolation, refusing to collaborate with the…
Mass protests erupted in Germany on Saturday as the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party sought a breakthrough in upcoming eastern state elections. Thousands of demonstrators gathered in Erfurt, blocking roads leading to the party's annual conference. Police estimated around 15,000 people took part in the demonstrations, which were organized by a coalition of groups opposing the AfD and its policies.
Widersetzen (Resist), an anti-AfD umbrella group, condemned the protests, stating that they would not tolerate the rise of fascism in Germany. The AfD has opened a clear lead over Chancellor Friedrich Merz's conservatives in national opinion polls, with support reaching 29% in recent surveys. The party is also polling strongly in Saxony-Anhalt, where it is seeking an outright victory, and Mecklenburg-Vorpommern.
Mainstream parties have ruled out working with the AfD, fearing it could threaten Germany's democratic order. AfD leaders reject accusations of promoting racist policies and views incompatible with Germany's democratic values.
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