The far-right Alternative für Deutschland (AfD) is gaining unprecedented momentum in Saxony-Anhalt, where opinion polls suggest the party could secure an outright majority in regional elections scheduled for September. Such an outcome would mark the first time since World War Two that a far-right party has governed a German state.
At a party conference in Magdeburg this weekend, AfD delegates formally adopted a sweeping and controversial policy programme for the region. Described by critics as “radical,” the 150-page document outlines major changes to migration policy, education, family structure, and relations with Russia.
Ulrich Siegmund, the party’s lead candidate in Saxony-Anhalt and a prominent social media figure, addressed supporters to loud applause. He described the upcoming vote as a turning point not only for the region but for Germany as a whole.
“From here, the political turnaround can begin,” he told delegates, urging supporters to “take back our country” and arguing that many citizens no longer feel safe or at home.
The manifesto calls for strict migration controls, including expanded deportations and what it terms “remigration,” a policy aimed at returning migrants and asylum seekers with non-German backgrounds to their countries of origin. It also proposes centralised housing for refugees and rejects what it describes as “illegal mass migration.”
Proposals on social policy emphasise support for traditional family structures, including tax incentives for large families and free childcare. The document defines the ideal family model as “a father, a mother and as many children as possible,” while also calling for restrictions on LGBTQ+ visibility in schools and the withdrawal of funding for public broadcasting in the state.
Foreign policy positions outlined in the programme include a significant shift towards closer relations with Russia, including opposition to current sanctions and calls for increased Russian language education in schools. The manifesto also suggests that Ukrainian refugees should return to their home country, rejecting their continued classification as war refugees.
Opposition figures have sharply criticised the AfD’s plans. Eva von Angern, leader of the Left Party in Saxony-Anhalt, warned that the programme represents a threat to democratic norms and civil liberties. She accused the party of promoting authoritarian ideas and warned of severe consequences if it were to take power.
The AfD, which came second in Germany’s national elections last year with more than 20% of the vote, has been classified as a far-right extremist organisation by state authorities in Saxony-Anhalt. Despite this, its support continues to grow, particularly in eastern Germany.
Protests were held outside the conference venue, with several hundred demonstrators voicing opposition to the party’s platform. Analysts say the AfD’s programme signals its broader ambitions should it gain influence beyond regional politics, intensifying debate over Germany’s political direction ahead of the upcoming vote.
