Germany's parliament is set to vote on an opposition bill aimed at tightening migration rules, potentially marking the first legislation to pass with the support of a far-right party. The bill, spearheaded by opposition leader Friedrich Merz, emphasizes a more restrictive approach to migration following a recent deadly knife attack by a rejected asylum-seeker.
Merz's focus on migration policies has raised concerns among critics about his stance towards the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party. Despite facing protests and accusations, Merz maintains that he does not intend to collaborate with AfD.
In a recent parliamentary motion, Merz proposed turning back more migrants at Germany's borders, a measure that narrowly passed with the backing of AfD. This move drew criticism from former Chancellor Angela Merkel, highlighting internal party tensions.
Another legislation put forth by Merz's Union bloc seeks to halt family reunions for migrants with limited protection status and grant federal police enhanced deportation powers. While the center-left governing parties oppose this 'influx limitation bill,' a coalition of opposition parties, including AfD, supports it.
The bill's fate remains uncertain, as it requires approval from the upper house of parliament, which may prove challenging. The political maneuvering has widened the gap between Merz's bloc and the center-left coalition, potentially impacting post-election coalition formations.
Current polls indicate Merz's Union leading with approximately 30% support, followed by AfD at around 20%, with the Social Democrats and Greens trailing behind. Accusations of breaking the consensus to distance from AfD have been directed at Merz, who refutes claims of aligning with the far-right party.
Merz asserts his efforts to seek majorities in the political center, while his opponents question his willingness to compromise. The political landscape in Germany remains dynamic as parties position themselves ahead of the upcoming election, with migration policies emerging as a key point of contention.
