The eastern German state of Brandenburg has officially labeled the Alternative for Germany (AfD) party as a ‘proven right-wing extremist’ organization. This classification came after a report from the state’s Office for the Protection of the Constitution, which claims the AfD aims to undermine democratic processes. Previously, the party held a lesser designation of suspected extremism since 2020. Far-left Interior Minister Rene Wilke presented these findings at a press conference, asserting that the AfD’s moves are intended to weaken democratic foundations, despite the party’s strong denials.
Wilke stated plainly, “The AfD’s actions show a clear intent to weaken the democratic state and its structures.” The 140-page report accuses the AfD of promoting ‘xenophobic’ views and adopting an ethnocentric view of German identity that excludes immigrants and Muslims. It details how AfD members have engaged in extreme rhetoric that threatens democratic legitimacy and paints migration issues in alarmist terms.
Wilfried Peters, head of Brandenburg’s intelligence agency, echoed concerns about the AfD’s impact on democracy. He described their rhetoric as “a direct attack on democracy and the rule of law.” While he noted that not all AfD members are extremists, he highlighted that some supporters operate within echo chambers that foster radical views. “The party promotes discrimination and exclusion,” Peters warned, indicating a flow of disinformation in public discourse against state institutions.
In response, AfD parliamentary group leader Hans-Christoph Berndt criticized the report’s objectivity. He remarked that the findings were “biased and judgmental,” opposing the classification as a danger to democracy. He vowed to challenge it legally, claiming that it reflects hostility towards the AfD rather than genuine concerns over extremism.
Meanwhile, Dennis Hohloch, managing director for the AfD’s parliamentary group, condemned the report as a reflection of political manipulation by the intelligence agency. Hohloch maintained, “The classification does not prove right-wing radicalism in the party,” asserting that the office selectively targets groups they dislike.
This classification marks the fourth German state to brand its AfD branch in this manner, following similar designations in Saxony and Thuringia. Polling suggests the AfD has significant support in these regions, often exceeding 30 percent. Nationally, the AfD placed second in the February 2025 elections, capturing 20.8 percent of the vote and resulting in 152 seats in parliament. Tension around the party continues, as it has recently gained traction, polling at 26 percent nationally, leading ahead of the Christian Democrats.
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