The youth wing of the Alternative for Germany party divides Germany – even before its establishment.
The AfD party plans to officially launch its new youth organization, 'Generation Germany', in Giessen at the end of November, which has sparked widespread protests and concerns from authorities about the possibility of violence. It is expected that the number of protesters will reach 40,000 in a city with a population of 90,000.
The new youth organization will replace the Alternative Youth (JA), which was previously classified as a confirmed right-wing extremist organization. Unlike its predecessor, all members of 'Generation Germany' must also be members of the AfD party. About 2,000 people have already expressed their desire to join.
The founding conference will be held at Hessenhalle, the exhibition grounds in Giessen. A coalition of unions, initiatives, and NGOs, under the name 'Resist', has called for counter-demonstrations, planning to block roads and organize protest buses from several major cities. Organizers expect more than 10,000 participants.
The police in Giessen are preparing for a heavy security presence, supported by officers from all over Hesse, from other German states, and from the federal police. Measures may include the use of police dogs, helicopters, drones, and boats. Authorities have also put a traffic management plan in place to ensure public safety and the freedom to assemble.
Leaders of the AfD party, including Jan-Pascal Hom, confirmed that the youth organization will serve as a 'training ground for future leaders and a driver of innovation' for the party. Political analysts point out that while some autonomy is allowed, the main goal remains to enhance the electoral success of the parent party.