German intelligence labels AfD extremist, party to sue
The German intelligence service has classified Alternative for Germany (AfD) as an extremist organisation. The party is announcing legal action, calling the decision a "blow to democracy."
What do you need to know?
- BfV Decision: The German intelligence service (BfV) has classified Alternative for Germany (AfD) as an extremist organisation, allowing the use of covert surveillance methods.
- AfD's Reaction: The party's co-chairs, Alice Weidel and Tino Chrupalla, have announced legal action against the decision, claiming it is politically motivated.
- Political Consequences: The BfV's decision does not result in a ban on AfD, but it could affect its operations and public image before a change of government.
What are the accusations against AfD?
The German intelligence service considers that the dominant concept of the nation within AfD is based on ethnic categories, leading to the exclusion of specific population groups from equal participation in society. "The AfD is now being publicly discredited and criminalised as an opposition party shortly before the change of government," stated Alice Weidel and Tino Chrupalla in a statement.
Will AfD be banned?
Classifying AfD as an extremist organisation does not imply a ban. Only the Constitutional Court can decide upon request from one of the parliamentary chambers or the government. The BfV's decision allows the authorities to use covert methods to monitor the group's activities, which can impact its functioning.
What are AfD's next steps?
The party believes the BfV's decision is politically motivated and threatens democracy. AfD has published a statement declaring that it will continue to defend itself legally against these slanderous claims. The organisation plans to take legal action against the BfV's decision, claiming it is a "powerful blow to German democracy."
