Concerns are mounting within Germany regarding potential internal threats to the nation’s democratic foundations, prompting calls for a coordinated response from federal and state governments. Olaf Lies, Minister-President of Lower Saxony and leader of the state’s Social Democratic Party (SPD), has urged a collaborative effort to safeguard the country’s political system.
In an interview with the “Neue Osnabrücker Zeitung” Lies emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating his “great request” to Federal Interior Minister Horst Seehofer, in conjunction with interior ministers from various states, to develop strategies that proactively protect democracy from internal destabilization. He underscored that historical precedent highlights the importance of early intervention.
The discussion follows increasing scrutiny of the Alternative for Germany (AfD) party, with the Federal Office for the Protection of the Constitution considering the party’s classification as “right-wing extremist”. Should courts uphold this assessment, Lies indicated that initiating a legal process for a potential ban would become unavoidable. “If a ban is necessary to protect the fundamental principles of a free and democratic order, then we must pursue it” he stated. The potential move would represent a significant escalation in the legal challenges faced by the AfD.
