Germany’s Election Landscape Shifts as Friedrich Merz Proposes Border Control Law
A Bid to Counter the Far Right
Opposition leader Friedrich Merz, the clear frontrunner to become Germany’s next chancellor, has pledged to bring a law on restoring border controls before parliament this week, even if it requires support from the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD).
The Stabbing Incident and Public Concerns
The proposal comes amidst a backdrop of growing public concerns over security and migration, fueled by a recent fatal stabbing incident. Police suspect a rejected Afghan asylum seeker who should have been deported was responsible for the attack, which has drawn attention to the AfD’s platform.
Merz’s Proposal and its Implications
Merz’s proposal aims to restore permanent border controls within the EU’s Schengen passport-free travel zone. However, his critics argue that this move risks dismantling the German political mainstream’s firewall against cooperation with the far right.
Merz’s Critics Weigh In
Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock, a member of the Greens, has described Merz’s proposal as "unworkable" and a "betrayal of Germany’s responsibility to EU partners." She believes that if implemented, it would lead to the breakdown of Europe.
The Rise of the AfD
Founded over a decade ago by right-wing economists who opposed the EU single currency, the AfD has become increasingly nativist and focused on the supposed threat to Germany’s identity posed by immigration. German authorities classify the AfD as an anti-democratic, far-right party, and all other parties have refused to govern with it.
Merz’s Political Gamble
Merz’s original pitch to lead the conservatives was that, by breaking with former Chancellor Angela Merkel’s immigration-friendly centrism, he could "halve" the far right in the opinion polls by winning back their voters. However, he has not been wholly successful, and the AfD is now running second in pre-election polls, behind the conservative bloc.
Conclusion
Friedrich Merz’s proposal to restore border controls has significant implications for Germany’s political landscape. While it may be a bid to counter the far right, it risks undermining the country’s relationships with its EU partners and perpetuating a narrative of xenophobia and fear.
FAQs
Q: What is Friedrich Merz’s proposal regarding border controls?
A: Merz has pledged to bring a law on restoring border controls before parliament, even if it requires support from the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD).
Q: What is the background to Merz’s proposal?
A: The proposal comes amidst a backdrop of growing public concerns over security and migration, fueled by a recent fatal stabbing incident.
Q: What are the implications of Merz’s proposal?
A: Critics argue that the proposal risks dismantling the German political mainstream’s firewall against cooperation with the far right and undermining Germany’s relationships with its EU partners.
Q: What is the current political landscape in Germany?
A: The AfD is now running second in pre-election polls, behind the conservative bloc, and all other parties have refused to govern with it.