What's happened
German CDU leader Friedrich Merz discussed large-scale deportations to address urban migration issues and combat the rise of the far-right AfD. He reaffirmed the party's 2018 migration stance amid growing electoral challenges, especially in eastern states where AfD polling is high.
What's behind the headline?
Merz's emphasis on large-scale deportations signals a hardening of CDU's migration policy, aiming to appeal to voters concerned about immigration and the far-right's growth. His firm stance on maintaining the 2018 decision indicates a reluctance to shift party lines despite electoral pressures. The focus on eastern Germany reflects the region's significance as a battleground, where AfD's populist rhetoric resonates with local voters. This approach risks alienating moderate voters but aims to consolidate the conservative base. The internal debate highlights the broader challenge for German mainstream parties: balancing migration control with social cohesion and electoral viability. If the CDU doubles down on deportations, it could further polarize the political landscape, potentially boosting AfD support or alienating immigrant communities and moderates.
What the papers say
Politico reports that Merz discussed large-scale deportations as a solution to urban migration problems, emphasizing that the government has reduced migration numbers by 60% between August 2024 and August 2025. AP News confirms Merz's firm stance on maintaining the 2018 migration decision, dismissing calls for change from marginal figures. Politico also details internal CDU strategies to counter the AfD's rise, especially in eastern states, by strengthening local presence and promoting a solutions-oriented image. Bloomberg quotes Merz asserting he has nothing to retract regarding his comments on deportations, reinforcing his hardline position. The articles collectively depict a CDU grappling with electoral challenges, regional dynamics, and the need to address migration and far-right support.
How we got here
Merz's comments follow a period of internal debate within the CDU about how to handle the AfD's increasing popularity, particularly in eastern Germany. The party has historically maintained a firm stance on migration, reducing numbers significantly in recent years, but faces pressure as the AfD gains traction by positioning itself as the primary anti-immigration force. The upcoming state elections in eastern Germany, where AfD polls around 40%, have intensified discussions on strategy.
Go deeper
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Friedrich Merz is a German lawyer and politician. A member of the Christian Democratic Union, he served as a Member of the European Parliament from 1989 to 1994 and was elected to the Bundestag from 1994 until 2009, where he chaired the CDU/CSU parliament
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Alternative for Germany is a right-wing to far-right political party in Germany. Founded in April 2013, the AfD narrowly missed the 5% electoral threshold to sit in the Bundestag during the 2013 federal election.
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The Christian Democratic Union of Germany is a Christian-democratic and liberal-conservative political party in Germany. It is the major catch-all party of the centre-right in German politics.