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Thousands of demonstrators filled Berlin’s streets, opposing what they see as a violation of post-war German political norms. The protests erupted after parties collaborated with the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) on a non-binding immigration resolution last week.

Friedrich Merz, leader of the Christian Democratic Union (CDU) and a likely candidate for Germany’s next chancellor, sought AfD’s support twice last week. One attempt involved a bill aimed at limiting immigration. This move ignited widespread outrage. Demonstration organizers emphasized that people came to denounce the perceived breach of Germany’s longstanding political stance against working with the far right at the national level.

Growing Mobilization Ahead of Elections

The protests, held three weeks before national elections, mirrored similar demonstrations across the country on Saturday. Police estimated that around 160,000 people took part on Sunday. The rally started near the Bundestag and proceeded to the CDU headquarters.

Anna Schwarz, a 34-year-old protester, participated in her first political rally. “We can no longer look away,” she told AFP. She emphasized the need for loud and visible pressure on democratic parties to defend the country’s political values.

With the CDU leading polls ahead of this month’s snap election, the AfD is polling second. Merz, however, has ruled out any coalition with the far-right party. Despite his stance, recent actions have drawn criticism, including from former chancellor Angela Merkel.

Controversial Parliamentary Actions

Last Wednesday, a non-binding immigration motion passed through parliament. Two days later, a CDU-backed bill to restrict immigration and family reunification rights was narrowly defeated by 350 votes to 338. The AfD had supported the bill, adding to tensions.

Merkel accused Merz of breaking his earlier pledge not to cooperate with AfD in the Bundestag. In response, Merz defended his decisions as necessary and insisted he did not seek the far-right’s support. “A right decision doesn’t become wrong just because the wrong people agree to it,” Merz asserted last week.