AfD Considers Softer EU Stance, Strategy Paper Shows

Germany’s far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) is considering a change to its long-standing opposition to the European Union and the euro, according to a strategy paper reviewed by Reuters. The proposal calls for renegotiating EU treaties to create a looser alliance of sovereign nations, while suggesting a referendum on Germany’s EU membership if those efforts fail.

The paper also proposes allowing Germany to opt out of EU policies on migration, fiscal matters and jointly issued debt. However, it does not call for an immediate rejection of the euro. The document was prepared by AfD lawmakers from the European Parliament, Germany’s lower house and state parliaments, and any change to the party’s existing platform would require approval at a convention next year.

The proposal comes as the AfD seeks to expand its political influence and enter Germany’s federal government by 2029. The party, which finished second in last year’s national election, has gained support through its opposition to migration and other policies of mainstream parties. AfD parliamentary spokesman Peter Boehringer said the strategy represents an implementation of existing positions rather than a policy reversal.

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