Merz Defends Hardline Migration Proposals, Accuses Protesters of Hypocrisy

Merz Defends Hardline Migration Proposals, Accuses Protesters of Hypocrisy

Friedrich Merz, leader of the German conservative opposition, defended his controversial migration proposals despite widespread criticism and protests accusing him of breaching the long-standing barrier between the far right and centrists.

In a speech to his Christian Democratic Union (CDU) party congress in Berlin, Merz expressed confidence in a strong victory in the upcoming February 23rd general election, placing them well ahead of the anti-immigration, anti-Islam Alternative für Deutschland (AfD). He reiterated his commitment to never formally cooperate with the AfD, despite passing a non-binding resolution on border policy with their votes, marking a historic break from tradition.

Merz took an aggressive stance towards the tens of thousands of protesters who criticized his gamble with the AfD, accusing them of hypocrisy. He demanded to know where the "uprising of decent people" was in the face of rising antisemitism and violent crimes. He argued that mainstream parties must offer tougher responses to such issues to avoid losing ground to extremists.

Merz emphasized that a government under his leadership would demonstrate the strength of Germany's democratic order in facing challenges. He warned that failure to do so could lead to a slide into populism, either from the left or the right.

Despite leading in the polls for several months, Merz has faced intense criticism from across the political spectrum for his risky approach to isolating the far right. Critics argue that his proposals violate EU and German law. A recent attempt to pass legislation tightening immigration controls with the support of the AfD failed in parliament.