Alternative for Germany Party Sues Intelligence Agency Over Extremist Designation
The AfD has sued the German intelligence agency after being classified as an extremist organization, which allows increased surveillance of the party.
Summary
The Alternative for Germany (AfD) party has filed a lawsuit against the Federal Office for the Protection of the Constitution, challenging its classification as a right-wing extremist body. The designation allows the agency to monitor the party using various surveillance methods. The AfD argues that the classification violates constitutional rights and attempts to marginalize their political stance. This legal move comes amid rising concerns over far-right politics in Germany and tensions with U.S. officials commenting on the decision.
Sources (3)
- The classification of the AfD as extremist is vital for protecting democracy and preventing the rise of right-wing extremism in Germany.
- The AfD's lawsuit is an attempt to undermine state authority and distort democratic competition; the move is seen as a reaction to its growing popularity.
- Germany's government stands firm in its response to the criticisms from abroad, asserting the necessity of the classification for national security.
Al Jazeera·17d· "…The move came at a pivotal moment in German politics as the mainstream grapples with the continued rise of the far right."