In a dramatic move with significant political ramifications, Germany’s domestic intelligence agency has officially classified the right-wing Alternative for Germany (AfD) party as “extremist.” The decision by the Federal Office for the Protection of the Constitution (BfV), announced on May 2, has stirred controversy, particularly as the AfD continues to enjoy strong polling numbers ahead of traditional mainstream parties.

According to a BfV statement, the classification stems from what authorities describe as an “intensive and comprehensive expert review” of the party’s activities, affiliations, and rhetoric. The agency claims the AfD demonstrates “numerous signs of acting against the free democratic basic order” and accused it of “disregarding human dignity” through its political messaging.

At the center of the BfV’s rationale is the AfD’s purported “ethno-centric” worldview. Authorities argue that the party’s leaders promote a vision of German identity rooted primarily in ethnic descent, thereby excluding citizens with migrant backgrounds-especially Muslims-from full societal participation. Officials cited the party’s frequent use of language such as “knife-wielding migrants” and claims about alleged violent tendencies among non-European ethnic groups as evidence of incitement and discrimination.

“The continuous incitement against refugees and migrants… promotes the spread and deepening of prejudices, resentment, and fears,” the agency’s report stated, warning that such rhetoric could undermine social cohesion and democratic........

© Blitz