A recent INSA survey reveals that 48% of Germans favor banning the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party following its official classification as an extremist organization by Germany’s domestic intelligence agency. The poll, conducted between May 2 and 3, 2025, also found that 37% oppose a ban, while 15% remain undecided.
AfD Classified as “Right-Wing Extremist” by German Intelligence
On May 2, 2025, Germany’s Federal Office for the Protection of the Constitution (BfV) designated the AfD as a “proven extremist group” after a comprehensive three-year investigation. This classification allows authorities to increase surveillance of the party, including intercepting communications and recruiting informers. The BfV report criticized the AfD for promoting a nationalist and ethnically defined view of the German people, which undermines the country’s democratic constitutional order. The agency also highlighted the party’s anti-Islamic and anti-immigration rhetoric as key factors in the extremist designation.
Public Opinion Reflects Growing Concern
The INSA poll showed that 61% of Germans already viewed the AfD as a right-wing extremist party before the official classification, and 79% said the intelligence agency’s decision did not change their perception. The AfD’s popularity, however, remains high, with recent polls placing the party at around 26%, making it Germany’s leading opposition force.
Political Reactions and Legal Challenges
AfD leaders Alice Weidel and Tino Chrupalla condemned the BfV’s decision as a “severe blow to German democracy” and vowed to challenge the classification in court. Meanwhile, outgoing Chancellor Olaf Scholz urged caution, emphasizing that banning a political party requires a thorough and carefully prepared legal process, given Germany’s strict constitutional standards.
The classification also complicates the AfD’s prospects for parliamentary influence. After securing the second-largest number of seats in February’s elections, the party was poised to chair several key Bundestag committees. However, the extremist label may lead other parties to block these efforts.
Incoming Interior Minister Promises Tighter Border Controls
In parallel with the intensified scrutiny of the AfD, Germany’s incoming interior minister has pledged to implement stricter border controls as part of broader efforts to address immigration and security concerns, issues central to the AfD’s platform.
This development marks a significant moment in Germany’s ongoing struggle to confront right-wing extremism while balancing democratic freedoms and legal protections.
Sources:
[Al Jazeera]1 | [Reuters]2 | [Deutsche Welle]35 | [Anadolu Agency]4
