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AfD Proposes Overhaul of Youth Wing to Tighten Control

The far-right party plans to replace its current youth organization, Junge Alternative, citing concerns over extremism and legal risks.

Zelt der Jungen Alternative bei einer Demonstration (Archivbild)
Ein Mann steht bei einer Wahlkampfveranstaltung der AfD Brandenburg in Cottbus am Stand der Jungen Alternative.
Image
AfD-Chefin Alice Weidel; JA-Bundesvorsitzender Hannes Gnauck

Overview

  • The AfD's federal executive board has proposed dissolving its current youth wing, Junge Alternative (JA), and establishing a new organization under stricter party oversight.
  • The JA, founded in 2013, has been classified as a 'proven right-wing extremist' group by Germany's domestic intelligence agency, raising legal and reputational concerns for the AfD.
  • The proposed restructuring would make all AfD members under 36 automatically part of the new youth organization, ensuring greater control and alignment with the party's goals.
  • Party leaders argue the move is a preemptive measure to protect young members from potential legal consequences if the JA were to face a government ban.
  • The proposal will be voted on at the AfD's national party congress in January, requiring a two-thirds majority to pass.