Summary
German lawmakers are debating whether to pursue a ban on the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD), but many fear the move could backfire ahead of the Feb. 23 national election.
The proposal, backed by 124 lawmakers, seeks a court review of whether the AfD is unconstitutional.
Critics, including Chancellor Olaf Scholz, warn a failed attempt could strengthen the party, which is polling at 20%.
The debate underscores concerns over the AfD’s extremism but also the risks of fueling its anti-establishment narrative.
Do you think that was because of the ban on the NSDAP or because of the unconditional surrender, execution of influential personnel and subsequent occupation of Germany?
I think that there were no Nazis left to run the party by the 1980s and Germany was still fine.