In Germany, the debate surrounding the potential banning of the far-right party “Alternative for Germany” (AfD) has intensified, causing increasing concern among government officials and political forces
The country's Minister of Justice, Stefani Hubig, emphasized that the issue of banning this organization should be taken very seriously, as she believes it poses "a very serious threat to our democratic system." In a recent interview with the Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung, she stated that the government cannot ignore the facts indicating the extremist nature of AfD. She highlighted that the Federal Office for the Protection of the Constitution (Bundesamt für Verfassungsschutz) had previously officially classified this political group among right-wing extremist organizations. This means that considerations regarding its ban must be addressed within the legal framework, as "according to the law, evaluating such a possibility is necessary." Hubig explained that the federal government is already preparing a unified position on procedural aspects. She added that this issue should be discussed both at the Bundestag and at the Federal Council (Bundesrat). "I would like to emphasize that this discussion should take place in both chambers of parliament, as they are the bodies that make decisions regarding the prohibition of political associations," the minister noted. At the same time, she clarified that such a discussion does not automatically imply a ban. According to her, a decision to ban can only be made after a thorough analysis of all circumstances and grounds. Hubig stressed that if there are substantial reasons to ban AfD, the government will not stop at passionate declarations and discussions — it must act within the bounds of the law and with the appropriate legal basis. She added that such a decision would be based on a detailed analysis, and political dialogue on this issue should be conducted openly and transparently. The escalation occurred at the end of last month, when the Federal Office for the Protection of the Constitution officially began classifying AfD as a "confirmed right-wing extremist" organization, elevating its status from the previous "suspected" level. This decision granted law enforcement expanded authority to monitor the party’s activities. However, the agency later temporarily suspended this classification due to a court process in Cologne, where a lawsuit challenging AfD’s status is being considered. Until a final ruling, the administrative court approved a request to extend surveillance of this political force as a "suspected" organization. Given the severity of political and security challenges, many analysts are asking whether the German government will take a highly risky step — banning one of the most influential and pro-Russian parties in contemporary German politics. Such a decision must be not only legally justified but also socially supported to avoid potential internal conflicts and divisions. The discussion of this issue is particularly relevant in the context of rising populist sentiments and increased right-wing rhetoric in the country. For more details on the possible consequences and legal aspects of this case, see our in-depth article "Banning the AfD: Will Germany Dare to Punish the Main Pro-Russian Party?" Will the official Berlin take a step that could significantly change the country's political landscape? And will those in power have the strength and willingness to support a decision to ban the party? These remain very topical questions that spark lively debate among politicians, experts, and the public.