The protests came after some parties voted alongside the far-right party, Alternative for Germany (AfD), over a non-binding resolution on immigration last week.

Summary

Around 160,000 people protested in Berlin against cooperation with the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) after some parties, including the Christian Democratic Union (CDU), voted alongside them on immigration policies.

CDU leader Friedrich Merz, a frontrunner for chancellor, faced backlash for attempting to pass an immigration bill with AfD’s support, despite ruling out a coalition.

The protests, part of nationwide demonstrations ahead of Germany’s snap elections, highlight fears over normalizing far-right influence in politics.

Former Chancellor Angela Merkel also condemned Merz’s actions.