Marcel Fratzscher, President of the German Institute for Economic Research (DIW), has strongly criticized the approach advocated by Saxon Prime Minister Michael Kretschmer (CDU) regarding how Germany should deal with the Alternative for Germany (AfD). Speaking to the “Handelsblatt”, Fratzscher asserted that dismantling the political firewall against the AfD benefits no one except the party itself, giving it additional legitimacy in many eyes.
Kretschmer had called for dialogue with all political parties, citing the current political distribution of power in Eastern Germany. However, the CDU Vice-Chairman told the newspaper that those still speaking about firewalls were failing to recognize the signs of the times, arguing that one must talk to everyone who wishes to be talked to.
Despite this pragmatic view, Fratzscher stated that numerous scientific studies indicate AfD policy is “highly destructive” economically and socially for Germany and would inflict considerable damage. The economist questioned the benefit of democratic parties engaging in conversations with the AfD given these findings.
Fratzscher concluded that a functioning democracy requires honesty with its citizens and described the situation as an “increasingly strong AfD paradox.” He argued that AfD voters, as well as regions with a high share of AfD supporters, would suffer significantly more under the AfD’s policies than other parts of the country.
