Germany's far-right Alternative für Deutschland (AfD) has formally adopted a sweeping, contentious manifesto in Saxony-Anhalt, setting the stage for what could be a watershed moment in the state's September elections. Polls suggest the party is poised to secure an outright majority—a development that would mark the first time a far-right party has governed a German state since the end of World War II.
At a party conference in Magdeburg, Ulrich Siegmund, the AfD's lead candidate in the state and a notable figure on social media, declared the moment historic. "The whole of Germany is watching this election," he proclaimed to delegates. "Parts of Europe and the world are watching because from here, the political turnaround can finally happen in Germany." Siegmund framed the manifesto as a response to a national sentiment of insecurity and alienation, urging supporters to "take back our country."
The 150-page document outlines a radical policy shift, centering on strict immigration controls and the promotion of ethnically German families. Key proposals include:
- Implementing "consistent deportations" and ending recognition of Ukrainians as war refugees.
- Advocating for "remigration"—a term referring to the mass removal of people with non-German backgrounds.
- Lifting energy sanctions against Russia and increasing Russian language education in schools, directly opposing federal government policy.
- Offering tax breaks and free childcare to encourage large, ethnically German families, citing a fight against "the extinction of the German people."
- Banning gay pride flags in schools and withdrawing funding for public broadcasting.
Critics have condemned the platform as a threat to democratic norms. Eva von Angern, leader of the Left Party's parliamentary group in Saxony-Anhalt, described it as a "nightmare scenario for Saxony-Anhalt and for our democracy," warning of severe curtailments to fundamental rights.
The manifesto's adoption comes amid heightened scrutiny of the AfD. The state branch has been classified as a "far-right extremist organisation" by Saxony-Anhalt's Office for the Protection of the Constitution. While the national party faces a similar designation from Germany's domestic intelligence service, a court has temporarily halted the use of the label pending a final ruling.
As several hundred protesters gathered outside the conference, observers noted that the Saxony-Anhalt program signals the AfD's governing ambitions should it gain further power nationally. The party, which secured a record 20.8% of the vote in the last federal election, continues to draw significant support, particularly in eastern Germany.