The AfD delegation in the European Parliament has been excluded from the right-wing Identity and Democracy (ID) group due to allegations of damaging the group’s reputation. The AfD plans to appeal the decision. With the European elections approaching, Green Party leader Ricarda Lang is calling on EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen to take a clear stance against the far right. She demands that von der Leyen exclude any coalition with right-wing extremists in the European Parliament.
Lang emphasized the need for von der Leyen to make a strong statement before the elections on June 9th, stating that there should be no cooperation with right-wing extremists in the European Parliament. This comes after von der Leyen defended her decision not to rule out a partnership with the right-leaning ECR group. The ECR group includes the far-right Fratelli d’Italia party led by Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and the ID group, which includes Marine Le Pen’s Rassemblement National party from France. All AfD MEPs were expelled from the ID group following controversial comments made by AfD MEP Maximilian Krah about the SS.
Lang highlighted the increasingly open displays of right-wing extremism within the AfD, noting that even Marine Le Pen no longer wants to collaborate with them. She also cautioned against being naive, pointing out that Le Pen is attempting to present a more moderate image within France while trying to deceive the public about the extremist core of her own party. Lang’s comments reflect the ongoing tension within the European political landscape as parties position themselves ahead of the upcoming elections.
The exclusion of the AfD from the ID group in the European Parliament signifies a growing divide within right-wing political factions in Europe. The call for von der Leyen to distance herself from any potential coalition with right-wing extremists underscores the importance of taking a strong stance against dangerous ideologies. As the European elections draw near, the issue of combating extremism and upholding democratic values remains a central point of discussion among political leaders across the continent.
The controversy surrounding the AfD’s expulsion and the broader issue of right-wing extremism in European politics highlight the urgent need for a unified commitment to countering extremist ideologies and protecting democratic principles. The upcoming elections will serve as a crucial test for European leaders in terms of their willingness to confront and combat radical movements that threaten the stability and integrity of the European Union. The outcome of these elections will undoubtedly shape the future direction of European politics and the ongoing struggle against extremism in the region.
