9 sources·Politics

Angela Merkel Criticizes CDU Leader for Collaboration with AfD on Migration Proposals

Former Chancellor Merkel publicly rebukes Friedrich Merz for working with the far-right AfD on migration reforms, intensifying political tensions in Germany.

33%

The distribution of story sources: left-leaning (blue), center (light gray), and right-leaning (red).

Mostly Reliable

The underlying sources are generally reliable but sometimes include opinion, propaganda, or minor inaccuracies.

Balanced

The underlying sources are either a balanced mix of left and right or primarily centrist.

Subscribe to unlock this story

We really don't like cutting you off, but you've reached your monthly limit. At just $5/month, subscriptions are how we keep this project going. Start your free 7-day trial today!

Get Started

The cooperation between the CDU and AfD represents a significant shift in German politics that could have long-lasting implications for the country’s immigration policies and its democratic values.
German AfD party goes mainstream after historic immigration vote
Washington Examiner·3M
Mostly Reliable
This source is generally reliable but sometimes includes opinion, propaganda, or minor inaccuracies.
·
Leans Right
This outlet slightly leans right.
As the debate intensifies over whether to ban the AfD, it is evident that many lawmakers are concerned this action could inadvertently strengthen the party's standing among voters who feel marginalized by the political establishment.
German Parliament Considers Ban of Right-Wing AfD Party Championed by Elon Musk
New York Sun·3M
Mixed Reliable
This source has a mixed track record—sometimes accurate but also prone to bias, sensationalism, or incomplete reporting.
·
Right
This outlet favors right-wing views.
Angela Merkel's recent foray back into the political limelight highlights her profound disapproval of her successor's collaboration with the far-right AfD, a move she believes undermines her legacy and the very principles of democratic governance.
Merkel Out of Retirement to Tell Off Germany Voting for Border Control
Breitbart News·3M
Mixed Reliable
This source has a mixed track record—sometimes accurate but also prone to bias, sensationalism, or incomplete reporting.
·
Right
This outlet favors right-wing views.
Friedrich Merz's decision to align with the AfD to tighten migration measures reveals a troubling shift in CDU's strategy, prioritizing short-term political gains over principles.
Germany’s Merkel blasts CDU leader for cooperating with far-right AfD
Al Jazeera·3M
Reliable
This source consistently reports facts with minimal bias, demonstrating high-quality journalism and accuracy.
·
Leans Left
This outlet slightly leans left.
Angela Merkel's recent comments signal a strong disapproval of Friedrich Merz's alignment with the far-right AfD, underscoring her belief that mainstream parties must maintain clear boundaries to protect democratic values.
Angela Merkel rebukes CDU leader for alliance with far-right on immigration
The Guardian·3M
Reliable
This source consistently reports facts with minimal bias, demonstrating high-quality journalism and accuracy.
·
Leans Left
This outlet slightly leans left.
Merkel's condemnation of Merz not just reflects her disapproval of his alliance with the far-right AfD, but also highlights a profound concern for the democratic values that she believes are at stake in this manipulative political maneuvering.
Angela Merkel criticises CDU party leader after far-right asylum vote
BBC News·3M
Reliable
This source consistently reports facts with minimal bias, demonstrating high-quality journalism and accuracy.
·
Center
This outlet is balanced or reflects centrist views.
Angela Merkel's rare criticism of Friedrich Merz reflects deep concerns about his willingness to align with far-right forces, which she views as a dangerous compromise that undermines the integrity of Germany's political landscape.
Merkel criticizes German front-runner Merz over migration vote with far-right support
ABC News·3M
Reliable
This source consistently reports facts with minimal bias, demonstrating high-quality journalism and accuracy.
·
Center
This outlet is balanced or reflects centrist views.
The recent cooperation between Germany's conservative bloc and the far-right AfD signals a troubling shift in the political landscape, undermining decades of consensus against extremists and raising concerns about the implications for democracy and social cohesion.
Germany's far-right upends convention with landmark vote on immigration
NBC News·3M
Reliable
This source consistently reports facts with minimal bias, demonstrating high-quality journalism and accuracy.
·
Center
This outlet is balanced or reflects centrist views.

Sort highlights

Updated: Jan 30th, 2025, 4:11 PM ET

Summary

A summary of the key points of this story verified across multiple sources.

In a rare intervention, former Chancellor Angela Merkel has criticized CDU leader Friedrich Merz for collaborating with the far-right AfD to tighten migration rules. This unprecedented action allowed the AfD to influence a parliamentary vote for the first time, leading to alarms over the potential erosion of democratic norms in Germany. Merkel called Merz's actions a U-turn from his November commitment to avoid working with the AfD and emphasized the need for democratic parties to prevent extremist gains. Current Chancellor Olaf Scholz denounced the move as an 'unforgivable mistake,' heightening tensions ahead of elections.

Perspectives

Compare opinions on this story from liberal (Left), conservative (Right) or center-leaning news organizations.

No center-leaning sources available for this story.

History

A summary of how this story has evolved over the last 24 hours.