Business leaders in North Rhine-Westphalia are drawing a stark line against the inclusion of the Alternative for Germany (AfD) party in their business forums and events, a stance that underscores deepening political divisions within the German economic landscape. The Landesvereinigung der Unternehmensverbände (Unternehmer.NRW), a significant organization representing businesses in the state, has explicitly rejected invitations to the AfD, citing concerns over the party’s fundamental beliefs and potential economic repercussions.
Johannes Pöttering, CEO of Unternehmer.NRW, stated in an interview with the Rheinische Post that the organization maintains a firm policy of excluding parties positioned on the extreme fringes of the political spectrum. He emphasized a conviction that a productive, constructive dialogue with the AfD is simply unattainable. This exclusion applies equally to the Left party (Die Linke).
Pöttering’s reasoning extends beyond simply ideological disagreement. He articulated a profound worry that “large parts of the AfD harbor beliefs that threaten democracy” and actively challenge core values such as freedom, diversity, the rule of law and social market economy. Critically, he specifically flagged the party’s frequent calls for a German exit from the European Union, labeling such proposals as “massively endangering the economic future and consequently, the prosperity and jobs in our country.
The decision contrasts sharply with the stance adopted by the Association of Family Businesses (Verband der Familienunternehmer), who appear open to including the AfD in some events, highlighting differing perspectives within the German business community regarding engagement with right-wing populist parties. This divergence raises questions about the broader role of business organizations in navigating increasingly polarized political terrain and the potential for economic interests to be leveraged within political debates. The move by Unternehmer.NRW signals a deliberate effort to distance the organization from a party perceived as a threat to Germany’s foundational democratic principles and its economic integration within Europe.
