Controversy Surrounds AfD's Participation at Stuttgart Education Fair

Germany's largest education fair faces backlash for allowing the far-right AfD to exhibit, sparking calls for stricter exhibitor policies.

The AfD's planned participation at the Didacta education fair in Stuttgart has drawn criticism from civil society groups, unions, and educational organizations.
The Central Council of Jews in Germany and international aid organizations have expressed concerns about the presence of a party they view as undemocratic and extremist.
The Didacta fair, which emphasizes democracy education this year, has defended its decision, citing neutrality requirements in its exhibitor policies.
Some organizations, including a startup providing educational materials, have announced boycotts, while a petition opposing the AfD's participation has gathered over 15,000 signatures.
The event, running February 11-15, will feature over 700 exhibitors, with other political parties, including the Greens and CDU, now also planning to attend to counter the AfD's presence.