Calls for AfD Closure in Germany Gain Momentum

A new report by a German civil society organization has provided strong grounds for the closure of the Alternative for Germany (AfD) party, known for its anti-immigrant stance. The report was published at a time when the AfD is leading public opinion polls. The Berlin-based Freedom Rights Institute (GFF) report stated that the AfD's 'racist rhetoric' and 'repressive approach' to its political opponents are in conflict with constitutional principles.The report emphasized that the AfD's approach undermines human dignity and democratic order. According to the report, the AfD's understanding of 'ethno-cultural people' excludes individuals of immigrant origin and creates divisions within society.One of the report's authors, Bijan Moini, stated that the AfD uses rhetoric aimed at intimidating its political opponents, citing the party's suggestion that politicians from other parties could face trial if the AfD comes to power.GFF board member Dana-Sophia Valentiner said that the organization does not take a political stance on the closure of the party but expects the legal assessment to be taken into consideration by politicians and the public. Recent public opinion polls show the AfD maintaining its position as Germany's leading political party with 27% of the vote. The next German general election is scheduled for 2029. The issue of the AfD's closure was also intensely debated in the first half of 2025, when the German Domestic Intelligence Agency (BfV) classified the party as a 'clearly right-wing extremist organization'. However, following the AfD's objection, the Cologne Administrative Court temporarily suspended the implementation of this classification as a precautionary measure. The trial process for the main case is ongoing.