Germany's CDU/CSU faces backlash over hardline stance on far-right alliances
Tensions have risen within German and European politics after recent clashes over migration policy and right-wing alliances. The CDU/CSU has taken a firm stance against cooperation with far-right groups in the EU, sparking backlash from conservative and nationalist factions. Meanwhile, local election results in Bavaria and Hesse reveal growing support for the AfD, adding pressure on mainstream parties.
The dispute began when EPP lawmakers allegedly coordinated with right-wing factions in the European Parliament. This move triggered outrage among German politicians, including CDU leader Friedrich Merz. He criticised EPP group leader Manfred Weber, demanding he halt such collaborations or face consequences. Weber has repeatedly vetoed joint majorities with far-right parties since 2019, particularly on migration and rule-of-law votes.
The CDU/CSU has long opposed alliances with groups like the ECR or ID, citing their radical positions. In 2024, the party blocked ECR/ID candidates for EU Commission roles, including Zsolt Szőllősi. However, this hardline approach has drawn criticism. Swedish Democrats politician Charlie Weimers argued that 'Europe can no longer be held hostage by Berlin's firewall logic,' reflecting frustration with Germany's political stance. The conflict has also jeopardised a hard-won migration policy agreement. Measures to enforce deportations of rejected asylum seekers were rejected in the European Parliament's Justice Committee, allegedly due to coordination with right-wing factions. Germany's black-red coalition had backed these measures, but Social Democratic MEPs, allied with Greens and far-left radicals, blocked them in Brussels. The SPD has since threatened to 'delay or water down' any EU resolution on migration. Observers note that Merz's position increasingly mirrors that of former Chancellor Angela Merkel, despite his past criticism of her. The episode also highlights the close ties between the CDU and CSU, with Merz now aligning with the red-green establishment on key issues.
The political fallout could reshape future alliances and policies at both state and federal levels. The AfD's gains in Bavaria and Hesse suggest shifting voter sentiment, while the CDU/CSU's firm stance against far-right cooperation risks alienating conservative factions. The migration policy deadlock further complicates EU negotiations, with potential delays or revisions ahead.
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