According to reports from the German newspaper “Bild,” citing faction circles, the AfD parliamentary group is apparently preparing for the possibility of a minority government led by the CDU/CSU.
Internal debate papers drafted by the group’s leadership are reportedly discussing various forms of potential collaboration with the Union parties and the conditions necessary for such cooperation. The report further details that the document outlines three specific scenarios, including a temporary cooperation lasting until the next federal election, as well as a fundamental readiness for episodic collaboration.
Should the AfD support a minority government, the party has formulated concrete demands. The internal paper states: “Support from the AfD group for a minority government is not given for free; we are not merely a stepping stone. Cooperation requires equal treatment.” Specific examples of the demanded equalization include a vice-presidential position in the Bundestag, chairmanships of committees, access to the faction meeting hall previously used by the SPD, and a stronger involvement in parliamentary consultations.
In addition to setting conditions, the internal document names several policy areas where the AfD envisions potential cooperation with the CDU and CSU. These areas include tightening citizenship laws, abolishing dual citizenship, reintroducing nuclear power, and cutting Bürgergeld (citizen allowance) benefits for Ukrainian refugees.
