Holocaust survivor Albrecht Weinberg announced his decision to return the Federal Cross of Merit in protest against a recent Bundestag vote on migration policy that received backing from the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party.
Weinberg, who has dedicated his life to educating others about the dangers of extremism, expressed deep disappointment over the Christian Democratic Union's (CDU) collaboration with the AfD.
This vote marked a significant moment in German politics, as it was the first time the AfD secured a majority in the Bundestag, raising concerns about the normalization of extremist politics.
Chancellor Olaf Scholz condemned the Union's actions as a 'taboo breach', highlighting a shift in the post-war political consensus against collaborating with the far-right.
Weinberg articulated his fears regarding the resurgence of extremist ideologies, calling the alliance with the AfD 'a blow to the gut'.
Both Weinberg and fellow Holocaust survivor Eva Umlauf criticized the decision to partner with the far-right, emphasizing the need to uphold democratic values.
The controversial vote, which took place on January 28, 2025, saw 348 members in favor of the CDU/CSU's proposal to tighten migration policies, with significant opposition from the ruling coalition parties, SPD and the Greens.
As the CDU leads in polls ahead of the upcoming elections, the implications of this vote on migration policy could significantly impact the political landscape in Germany.
Despite CDU leader Friedrich Merz's insistence on not formally cooperating with the AfD, the party's migration proposals have drawn significant criticism for their implications.
Political figures, including Toscano and former Chancellor Angela Merkel, have voiced their concerns about the rise of right-wing parties in Europe and the dangers of aligning with extremist factions.
Critics of the Union's decision, including Irme Stetter-Karp, have warned that such moves stray from constitutional principles regarding asylum rights.
The vote has sparked protests against the CDU's collaboration with the AfD, reflecting widespread public discontent with the political direction.
