Tens of thousands of protesters gathered in the German city of Erfurt on Saturday to oppose the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party congress. Demonstrators blocked major roads and disrupted public transport throughout the city. However, the conference opened on schedule despite the widespread protests.
Protesters Rally Against Far-Right Party
Police estimated that around 31,000 people joined the demonstrations. Meanwhile, organizers claimed attendance exceeded 50,000 participants. Protesters included trade unions, civil society groups, and members of left-wing political parties.
Demonstrators blocked several routes leading into Erfurt using different protest tactics. Some activists abseiled from a motorway bridge, while others staged sit-ins on tram tracks. Although the protests remained largely peaceful, police used pepper spray during isolated confrontations.
Many protesters said they wanted to oppose the growing influence of the AfD. They argued that the party’s policies threaten Germany’s democratic values. Additionally, some called for stronger measures to prevent the party’s political rise.
AfD Re-Elects Leaders Ahead of Key Elections
Inside the convention, delegates re-elected co-leaders Alice Weidel and Tino Chrupalla. The pair have overseen the party’s growing popularity ahead of important state elections. Party officials also dismissed the protests during opening speeches.
Weidel told delegates that the AfD represented Germany’s best opportunity for national renewal. She also repeated the party’s hardline stance on illegal immigration. Furthermore, she pledged stricter deportation policies if the party gains power.
The AfD continues to gain support, particularly in eastern Germany. Analysts attribute its rise to voter dissatisfaction with economic conditions and mainstream politics. Nevertheless, Germany’s established parties have maintained their refusal to cooperate with the AfD through a longstanding political “firewall.”
