Overview

• The Federal Office for the Protection of the Constitution classified the AfD as 'proven right-wing extremist,' but enforcement is paused due to a legal challenge.
• Schleswig-Holstein’s Minister President Daniel Günther (CDU) and Greens co-chair Felix Banaszak have publicly urged swift initiation of a formal party-ban procedure.
• The Saxon Greens adopted a motion supporting a ban, and Bavarian Greens have tabled a similar proposal to accelerate federal-level discussions.
• Chancellor Friedrich Merz remains skeptical, cautioning that a ban could be perceived as political suppression and highlighting constitutional hurdles.
• Legal experts warn that party-ban proceedings are lengthy and face high thresholds, with public opinion showing significant but divided support for a ban.