The protests came after some parties voted alongside the far-right party, Alternative for Germany (AfD), over a non-binding resolution on immigration last week.

Summary

Around 160,000 people protested in Berlin against cooperation with the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) after some parties, including the Christian Democratic Union (CDU), voted alongside them on immigration policies.

CDU leader Friedrich Merz, a frontrunner for chancellor, faced backlash for attempting to pass an immigration bill with AfD’s support, despite ruling out a coalition.

The protests, part of nationwide demonstrations ahead of Germany’s snap elections, highlight fears over normalizing far-right influence in politics.

Former Chancellor Angela Merkel also condemned Merz’s actions.

  • Karyoplasma@discuss.tchncs.deEnglish
    49·
    28 days ago

    Germany’s population is around 83 million, Berlin would be around 3.5 million. So 160k is a lot (4.5% of Berlin’s citizens).

    Further reference: the largest demo in Berlin was the protest against the Russian invasion of Ukraine and counted around 500,000 participants.