Germany's AfD Unveils Controversial 'Radical' Manifesto Ahead of Elections

Sun Apr 12 2026 07:38:17 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

As the AfD gains momentum in Saxony-Anhalt, its newly adopted manifesto emphasizes strict immigration policies and a pro-German agenda, raising concerns among opponents.

The Alternative für Deutschland (AfD) party has adopted a 'radical' government program ahead of regional elections, positioning itself for possible success in Saxony-Anhalt. The manifesto outlines stringent immigration policies, financial incentives for large German families, and a call for a shift in foreign relations towards Russia. Although the party is experiencing significant support, critics express grave concerns over its authoritarian stance and potential impacts on democracy in Germany.

The far-right Alternative für Deutschland (AfD) party is riding high in the opinion polls in the eastern German state of Saxony-Anhalt and could win an outright majority in regional elections there in September.

It would be the first time a far-right party has held power in a German state since World War Two.

This weekend the AfD officially adopted what has been described as a 'radical' and pro-ethnic German government programme for Saxony-Anhalt at a party conference in the central city of Magdeburg.

The AfD's leading candidate in the state, Ulrich Siegmund, a TikTok star who was given a standing ovation by delegates, said it was a historic moment not just for Saxony-Anhalt.

The whole of Germany is watching this historic election, he told the conference. Parts of Europe are watching this historic election. Parts of the world are watching this historic election because from here, finally, the political turnaround can also happen here in Germany.

Siegmund indicated that the AfD has the courage to address key issues in Germany, asserting, we don't feel safe anymore, that we scarcely feel at home anymore, that we don't recognize our homeland anymore. He proclaimed, Let's take back our country.

The extensive manifesto consists of over 150 pages detailing plans to overhaul Saxony-Anhalt, emphasizing strict immigration controls and supporting large families of German origin. It notably includes the intention to improve relations with Russia, directly contradicting the federal government’s support for Ukraine.

We say yes to consistent deportations, we say yes to free childcare facilities, we say yes to remigration, Siegmund expressed. Some proposals may require federal intervention, yet many remain actionable at the state level.

Critics have described the AfD's plans as a nightmare scenario for Saxony-Anhalt and for our democracy, warning that it promotes an authoritarian state which could curtail fundamental rights.

Saxony-Anhalt, located in eastern Germany, has historically been an AfD stronghold, contributing to the party’s rising influence across the nation. The party secured a record 152 seats in the Bundestag elections last year, marking its presence as a significant force in German politics.

In 2023, local authorities classified the Saxony-Anhalt AfD branch as a far-right extremist organization. The current manifesto reflects the party's intentions to implement its radical policies should it gain power, with critics urging caution against the potential ramifications for Germany's democracy.