AfD accused of using dual strategy in migration policy

Migration researcher Gerald Knaus has accused the Alternative for Germany (AfD) party of employing a dual strategy regarding migration policy. Speaking to the ‘Inside AfD’ podcast, Knaus stated that while the party attempts to maintain official documents within constitutional boundaries, its rhetoric—particularly from influential members—signals much more radical intentions.

Knaus highlighted the concept of ‘remigration’ as a key indicator of this shift, noting that calls for the mass removal of people are not merely about deporting those required to leave, but rather an attempt to ‘separate peoples’ and reverse the multi-ethnic nature of German society. He argued that such goals represent a threat to the constitutional order established in 1949.

Other reports highlight the increasingly aggressive discourse within the party leadership. Critics point to a pattern of threatening political opponents and a disconnect between the party’s traditionalist family values and the personal lives of its leadership, such as party chair Alice Weidel.