German Chancellor Friedrich Merz condemned the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party's mass "remigration" proposals, explicitly calling them a synonym for "ethnic cleansing by skin color and origin."

 

German far right’s ‘remigration’ plans amount to ethnic cleansing, says Merz

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz condemned the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party's mass "remigration" proposals, explicitly calling them a synonym for "ethnic cleansing by skin color and origin." His statement was delivered during a highly charged debate in the Bundestag on Wednesday, September 9, 2026.

Context of the Clash

The parliamentary confrontation between Chancellor Merz and AfD co-leader Alice Weidel followed a pivotal state election in eastern Germany:

• Saxony-Anhalt Election: The AfD achieved a decisive victory, capturing nearly 44% of the vote, while Merz’s center-right CDU saw its share drop to 17%.
• Coalition Tension: Weidel declared the result a clear failure for Merz's governing coalition, stating his political time was up.

Core Arguments and Impact

• Condemnation of "Remigration": Merz argued that the AfD's flagship platform of mass deportations based on origin is fundamentally xenophobic.
• Economic Warnings: Merz emphasized that such policies would cripple the country's economy, stating that without workers of migrant backgrounds, Germany's hospitals, care homes, trades, and restaurants could no longer function.
• Policy Distinction: Merz clarified that while his administration rigorously enforces deportations for individuals without a legal right to remain, it firmly protects and welcomes foreign workers who contribute to the nation's economy, drawing a sharp line against the AfD's sweeping proposals.
• AfD Counter-Response: In comments reported by media outlets like Reuters, the AfD rejected the accusations, claiming Merz was deliberately mischaracterizing their platform to demonize legal policy proposals