Internal divisions within the Christian Democratic Union (CDU) are escalating as the sister party, the Christian Social Union (CSU), prepares to unveil proposals at their annual winter retreat in Seeon Monastery. The CSU’s anticipated policy positions, reportedly including demands for the return of nearly all Syrian refugees and a “large-scale deportation offensive” are drawing sharp critique, particularly concerning their timing and political ramifications.
Dennis Radtke, prominent figure and chairman of the CDU’s labor wing and Member of the European Parliament, acknowledged alignment with 90% of the CSU’s migration stance in an interview with “Süddeutsche Zeitung”. However, he voiced profound concern about the strategic decision to reignite the debate so close to pivotal state elections. Radtke questioned the wisdom of amplifying the core agenda of the far-right AfD on migration, diverting attention from crucial, unresolved issues like affordable housing, sustainable economic growth, comprehensive social reform and the future of European integration.
Radtke’s remarks suggest a simmering frustration within the CDU regarding the CSU’s perceived tendency to weaponize migration for political gain. He argued that Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt, also a CSU member, has already implemented effective migration policies and that a continued focus on these measures, rather than sensationalized pronouncements, would be a more productive approach.
The escalating rhetoric signals a potential power struggle between the two parties, with the CDU leadership seemingly wary of allowing the CSU to dominate the political narrative in the run-up to critical elections. Critics suggest the CSU’s proposed actions risk further polarizing the political landscape and potentially bolstering the AfD’s standing, while simultaneously eclipsing more pressing economic and social concerns that demand immediate attention. The Seeon retreat and the subsequent fallout, will likely define the immediate trajectory of German conservative politics.
