Thousands protest in Germany as far-right AfD party meets
Thousands of demonstrators gathered in Erfurt, Germany, on Saturday to protest the annual conference of the far-right Alternative für Deutschland (AfD) party, leading to tense confrontations with police as activists attempted to disrupt the event.
The protests brought together trade unions, civil society organizations, student groups, and left-wing political parties, all united in opposition to the AfD. Demonstrators organized marches, sit-ins, and road blockades around the conference venue, hoping to prevent party delegates from reaching the meeting. Despite the disruptions, hundreds of delegates managed to enter the venue and the conference proceeded as planned.
Police deployed large numbers of officers across Erfurt to secure the area and clear blocked roads. While authorities described most of the demonstrations as peaceful, clashes broke out in several locations as officers removed protesters who were attempting to block access to the conference. Several incidents, including acts of vandalism and obstruction, were reported during the day.
The AfD is holding its conference to discuss party strategy and leadership as it continues to gain political support across Germany. Party leaders defended their right to meet despite the protests and said they intend to strengthen their campaign ahead of upcoming regional elections, where they hope to make further electoral gains.
Critics argue that the AfD's growing influence poses a serious challenge to Germany's democratic values and accuse the party of promoting anti-immigration and nationalist policies. Protest organizers said they wanted to send a clear message that far-right politics should not become normalized in German society, while the demonstrations highlighted the deep political divisions surrounding the party's rising popularity.