Officially, the Christian Democratic Union (CDU) maintains a strict "firewall" (Brandmauer) against working with the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD), with federal leader Friedrich Merz repeatedly stating that no coalition or cooperation will take place.

 

Is the CDU starting to work with the AFD?

Officially, the Christian Democratic Union (CDU) maintains a strict "firewall" (Brandmauer) against working with the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD), with federal leader Friedrich Merz repeatedly stating that no coalition or cooperation will take place.

 

However, the situation is nuanced and shifting, particularly at the local level and in terms of parliamentary maneuvering. Here are the key details as of early 2026:

Official Position: The CDU leadership, including Merz and CSU leader Markus Söder, has reaffirmed that the AfD is an "enemy of the system" and that no coalitions or formal agreements will be made.

Erosion at Local Levels: Despite the official ban, there have been instances, especially in East German municipalities, where local CDU members have voted with the AfD on specific matters.

Shifting Rhetoric and Tactics: Some CDU members argue for shifting from a total boycott to a "substantive debate," adopting tougher rhetoric on migration to win back voters.

Failed Legislative Cooperation: In early 2025, there was controversy over a CDU-proposed immigration bill that was passed with AfD support, causing intense political debate about whether the firewall was eroding.

Rhineland-Palatinate 2026: Following March 2026 state elections, where the AfD polled strongly, the CDU in that state re-stated that a coalition with the AfD was "out of the question," aiming instead for a "coalition in the democratic center" with the SPD.

 

In summary, while the official, high-level policy is no cooperation, the "firewall" has become increasingly difficult to maintain in practice, particularly in eastern Germany and at the local level, leading to intense debate within the party.