German riot police clash with protesters hoping to block far-right AfD conference

Thousands of protesters gathered in Erfurt, Germany, to block the biennial national conference of the far-right Alternative für Deutschland (AfD) party, where leadership was to be elected. Riot police clashed with demonstrators who attempted to prevent AfD delegates from reaching the venue. Approximately 20,000 protesters participated in sit-in blockades and other disruptive actions. The AfD conference coincided with the centennial of a Nazi party conference in nearby Weimar, a timing that has drawn criticism. Despite the protests, the AfD reported that delegates were able to attend and the congress began on time. AfD co-leader Tino Chrupalla stated that holding party conferences is a guaranteed right and accused demonstrators of protesting against democratic decision-making.

Thousands of protesters, including unions, civil society groups, and left-wing parties, gathered in Erfurt, Germany, to disrupt the annual conference of the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party. An estimated 20,000 people blocked roads and staged sit-in blockades, aiming to prevent delegates from reaching the venue and to protest what they described as rising fascism. The AfD, which became the second-largest party in Germany last year, held its two-day conference despite the significant demonstrations and a large police presence. Some protesters clashed with police, but most AfD delegates were able to attend the conference, which began on time.

The far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) is experiencing a surge in popularity, fueled by the unpopularity of the current national coalition government's economic reforms. The party is holding a convention to elect leaders and aims to project unity. Following a strong showing in the previous national election, the AfD is now polling in first place nationally and is the strongest force in eastern Germany. The party is targeting significant gains in upcoming regional elections in Saxony-Anhalt and Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, potentially leading to its first state governor. Opponents express concerns about the AfD's potential governance, citing security risks and the possibility of confidential information leaks. The AfD rejects these concerns, asserting its ability to govern effectively. The party is also facing scrutiny from Germany's domestic intelligence agency, which classifies it as a proven right-wing extremist group, a designation the AfD disputes.