AfD Announces Split from Junge Alternative, New Youth Organization Formed
The Alternative for Germany (AfD) party has made a significant organizational shift by severing ties with its youth wing, the Junge Alternative (JA). This decision was made during a recent party congress held in Riesa, where delegates voted overwhelmingly to amend the party's statutes, leading to the establishment of a new youth organization.
The move comes in the wake of increased scrutiny from the Federal Office for the Protection of the Constitution, which has classified the JA as a suspected right-wing extremist group. The AfD leadership has sought to tighten the affiliation between its youth members and the main party, aiming to ensure better oversight and cohesion.
Under the new structure, the JA will be replaced by the Patriotische Jugend (Patriotic Youth), a group that will require all participants to be members of the AfD, with the exception of those under 16 years of age, who are not eligible for membership in the party. Previously, the JA operated with a degree of independence, allowing individuals who were not party members to join.
The reform is intended to strengthen the party's control over its youth organization and to improve accountability, particularly in cases of misconduct. Experts suggest that this change may also serve as a strategic measure to shield the youth group from potential bans, as it will no longer function as an independent association.
The JA has faced challenges since it was designated as a suspected case by the Verfassungsschutz (the German domestic intelligence agency) in 2021. The AfD has been actively contesting this classification in ongoing legal proceedings.
As the AfD navigates this transitional phase, party officials express optimism that the new youth organization will foster a more robust connection between young members and the party's central objectives, while also aligning with broader efforts to mitigate extremist associations.
This decision marks a pivotal moment for the AfD as it seeks to redefine its image in the political landscape, particularly in light of the upcoming electoral challenges.
