German Foreign Minister Calls for Cross-Party Cooperation in Fight Against Extremism
On the brink of the German federal election, Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock has implored the parties, excluding the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD), to prioritize collaboration. "As democratic parties, we must consistently find the strength to engage with one another," Baerbock stated during a public dialogue in Ludwigsfelde, Brandenburg. She emphasized the importance of maintaining a firewall against extremism.
Baerbock argued that the defining line in society is not drawn between those who support wind turbines, electric vehicles, or continued coal power, nor between those born in Germany versus those who have immigrated. "Rather, the dividing line lies between those who stand firmly on the foundation of the Basic Law and those who seek to undermine this constitution, thereby jeopardizing our peaceful coexistence," she asserted.
The Foreign Minister issued a warning: "We cannot countenance the erosion of the firewall against the far right. History has taught us that walls do not simply collapse; they start with small holes and cracks."
In January, the German parliament, the Bundestag, adopted a resolution proposed by the conservative Union faction, with support from the AfD, aimed at tightening migration policies. The resolution called for asylum seekers to be turned away at German borders. This move by the Union triggered widespread protests just weeks before the federal election. Baerbock expressed her concern that "some have lost their moral compass."
Baerbock’s appeal for cross-party cooperation underscores the growing concern about the potential impact of right-wing extremism on German politics and society. The AfD, which has been openly challenging the established political order, has gained significant support in recent elections, particularly in eastern Germany.
The resolution passed in January, which garnered support from the AfD, has been widely criticized as inhumane and at odds with international obligations. Human rights organizations have argued that turning away asylum seekers without due process violates the principle of non-refoulement, which prohibits states from returning people to countries where they face persecution.
The decision to cooperate with the AfD has also raised questions about the Union’s commitment to democratic values. The AfD has repeatedly made xenophobic and racist statements, and some of its members have been linked to neo-Nazi groups. The Union’s decision to work with the AfD has been seen as a gamble aimed at shoring up its right-wing support base.
Baerbock’s call for unity against extremism is particularly resonant in light of Germany’s history. The country was deeply scarred by the Nazi era, during which millions of people were killed in the Holocaust and other atrocities. The Basic Law, which serves as Germany’s constitution, was drafted in the aftermath of World War II to prevent the rise of fascism and authoritarianism.
The fight against extremism is an ongoing challenge for Germany and other countries around the world. The spread of disinformation and hate speech through social media has made it easier for extremist groups to recruit and radicalize individuals. The pandemic has also exacerbated social and economic inequalities, creating fertile ground for the growth of extremist ideologies.
Baerbock’s appeal for cooperation demonstrates the need for a concerted effort to protect democratic values and institutions. By working together, democratic parties can present a united front against hate and division, and ensure that the firewall against extremism remains strong.
