CDU Politician Advocates for 'Civilized Disdain' Towards AfD

Karin Prien, the Education Minister of Schleswig-Holstein and a member of the CDU, has expressed the need for a strategic rethink among democratic parties regarding their approach to the AfD (Alternative for Germany). In a recent statement, she emphasized the importance of maintaining a 'civilized disdain' towards the party, which she described as partly extremist and detrimental to democracy.

Prien highlighted that the AfD continuously undermines democratic values within the parliamentary setting and stated, 'We are dealing with a party that makes a mockery of our democracy from within the parliament.' She asserted that while the AfD's representatives are democratically elected, this does not warrant a normalization of interactions with them.

Notably, her remarks come amid a broader discussion among political leaders about how to handle the AfD's presence in legislative processes. Jens Spahn, the deputy chair of the Union faction, had previously suggested treating the AfD like any other opposition party in parliamentary matters. This suggestion has drawn mixed responses from various members of the CDU and the SPD (Social Democratic Party).

Prien warned that it is crucial to adhere strictly to parliamentary rules when engaging with AfD representatives, emphasizing the need for careful consideration in choosing whom to support in parliamentary votes. She insisted that the AfD's goal is to dismantle liberal democracy, necessitating a stance of 'civilized disdain' in response to their actions.

Concerns have been raised within the SPD regarding the potential normalization of the AfD's role in parliament. Matthias Miersch, the SPD general secretary, stated that the AfD poses a significant threat to the constitution and urged democratic parties to remain vigilant, asserting that there should be no normalcy in dealing with them.

Furthermore, the ongoing debate has led to differing opinions within the CDU itself. Roderich Kiesewetter, a CDU member, emphasized that AfD politicians should not be appointed to sensitive committees, particularly those dealing with national security. He pointed out that the party's connections to extremist ideologies and foreign entities could pose a threat to national security.

This internal discord reflects a broader struggle within the CDU to determine how best to address the rising influence of the AfD while maintaining democratic principles. While some, like Spahn, advocate for a more conventional parliamentary approach, others, including Kiesewetter, caution against providing the AfD with undue legitimacy.

As discussions continue, the CDU faces the challenge of navigating its relationship with the AfD amidst the pressures of public opinion and the need for a cohesive party strategy. The outcome of these debates will likely shape the future political landscape in Germany, particularly as the new government seeks to establish its priorities and direction.