German Political Parties Reject Family Business Association's Engagement with AfD

Leading figures from Germany's major political parties have voiced strong opposition to the recent decision by the Family Business Association to end its policy of not engaging with the Alternative for Germany (AfD) party. The Association, which represents over 6,500 family-owned enterprises, recently invited AfD representatives to a parliamentary event in Berlin, signaling a shift in its approach to the right-wing party. This move has generated significant debate within political and economic circles.

Representatives from the Christian Democratic Union (CDU), Social Democratic Party (SPD), and the Green Party have all expressed concerns about the implications of the Association's new stance. They argue that establishing closer ties with the AfD could undermine Germany's economic model and international standing. The CDU's economic and social policy leaders warned that AfD's nationalist agenda could threaten the country's export-driven economy, disrupt supply chains, and endanger jobs. They emphasized that Germany's economic success is closely tied to its openness to international trade and cooperation.

Similarly, SPD officials maintained that the normalization of relations with the AfD is not justified, even if the party is currently experiencing increased voter support. They noted that security agencies have classified the AfD as right-wing extremist and warned that democratic institutions must not treat such parties as legitimate partners in dialogue. The Green Party echoed these sentiments, emphasizing that the Association's leadership may not represent the views of the majority of its members. They called for a reassessment of the Association's position to prevent any erosion of democratic values and historical responsibility.

In response to the criticism, the Association's president clarified that the previous policy of avoiding contact with the AfD had been formally lifted at a recent parliamentary event. She stated that the intention was to engage with all parties represented in the Bundestag, including the AfD, to address substantive policy issues directly. According to the Association, the decision to initiate dialogue with AfD members was made earlier in the year and is part of a broader strategy to confront the party's positions through open discussion.

The move has also drawn criticism from economic experts and other business organizations. Economists warned that treating the AfD as a conventional political actor could have negative repercussions for Germany's economic reputation both domestically and internationally. Business advocacy groups reiterated their commitment to the principles of the social market economy and cautioned that the AfD's policies are incompatible with these values. They stressed the importance of business associations taking clear and public stances in support of democratic and economic stability.

The controversy has had tangible consequences. Reports indicate that a planned event between the Family Business Association and the Deutsche Bank was canceled after news of the Association's engagement with the AfD became public. While the bank's spokesperson did not officially confirm the cancellation, sources within the financial sector verified that the event would no longer proceed as scheduled.

Other organizations representing family businesses have stated they will maintain their policy of not collaborating with extreme parties. They underscored the importance of upholding Germany's democratic traditions and business environment, affirming that partnerships with parties that challenge these foundations are unacceptable.

The debate highlights ongoing tensions in German society regarding the boundaries of political engagement and the role of business associations in upholding democratic norms. As the Association of Family Businesses moves forward with its new policy, the response from Germany's political and economic establishment indicates that the issue of relations with the AfD remains highly contentious.