German Parliament Faces Heated Debate Over Migration Bill Backed by AfD Votes
Friedrich Merz's CDU pushes controversial legislation as critics warn of democratic risks and constitutional challenges.
- The CDU's proposed 'Zustrombegrenzungsgesetz' aims to limit migration by restricting family reunifications for certain refugees and granting expanded powers to the federal police.
- The bill has drawn sharp criticism for relying on votes from the far-right AfD, breaking a long-standing political taboo in Germany.
- Former Chancellor Angela Merkel and other prominent figures have condemned CDU leader Friedrich Merz's approach, citing risks to democratic norms.
- Protests have erupted nationwide, with thousands demonstrating against the potential normalization of cooperation with the AfD in parliamentary votes.
- The SPD has signaled potential legal action, questioning the bill's constitutionality and its alignment with European Union law.