German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has made a direct public appeal to voters who support the far-right AfD party, urging them to return to mainstream conservative politics while cautioning against the AfD's radical agenda. This development comes as the CDU/CSU-SPD coalition struggles with low approval ratings. For Germany's immigrant and expat community — numbering over 14 million people — the political pressure exerted by the AfD on mainstream parties is not just an abstract electoral concern. It actively shapes immigration policy, public discourse, and the everyday social environment that foreigners experience.
The AfD has built its political identity largely around anti-immigration rhetoric. While the party is currently in opposition, its polling strength forces mainstream parties to respond — often by adopting tougher language or stricter policies on migration and asylum. Merz's appeal to AfD voters is a sign that the conservative establishment is feeling electoral pressure from the far right.
For immigrants and expats, this matters in concrete ways. When mainstream parties shift rightward to recapture voters, the legislative consequences can include: stricter conditions for visa renewals and Aufenthaltstitel, reduced benefits for asylum seekers, faster deportation procedures, and tighter rules around family reunification. These are not hypothetical — several such measures have already been introduced or debated under the current government.
Merz's message is carefully calibrated: he is not endorsing far-right positions, but he is acknowledging that AfD voters have legitimate concerns he wants to address through mainstream politics. This includes stricter border control rhetoric and a tough stance on irregular migration.
Crucially, Merz and the coalition have maintained their support for legal skilled immigration pathways. Germany faces severe labor shortages — estimated at several hundred thousand unfilled positions in healthcare, engineering, and IT alone — and the government recognizes that restricting legal immigration would worsen an already serious economic problem. The distinction between irregular migration (which the government is toughening its approach to) and legal, skilled migration (which it continues to promote) is one that expats working legally in Germany should keep in mind.
Beyond legislation, political competition with the AfD has broader effects on the social environment. Research consistently shows that when far-right parties gain prominence in political debate, reported experiences of discrimination and xenophobia among immigrant communities tend to increase — even without direct policy changes.
For expats and immigrants in Germany, particularly those from non-European backgrounds or visible minorities, this is a lived reality worth acknowledging. Organizations such as the Antidiskriminierungsstelle des Bundes (Federal Anti-Discrimination Agency) provide support and legal resources for those who experience discrimination. Knowing your rights is the first step.
It may accelerate certain policy shifts that were already underway. The current government has already tightened border controls and deportation processes. Further changes are possible, particularly around asylum and irregular migration. However, legal pathways for skilled workers, students, and existing residents are unlikely to be significantly restricted, given Germany's economic needs.
Indirectly, yes. A heightened far-right presence in political discourse can affect the social climate, public attitudes, and occasionally workplace or administrative interactions. Legally, your rights as a resident are protected regardless of which party is in power. If you experience discrimination, you can contact the Antidiskriminierungsstelle des Bundes or seek legal advice.
The political dynamic between the CDU/CSU coalition and the AfD is one of the most important forces shaping Germany's immigration environment right now. For expats and immigrants, the practical advice is clear: stay informed, keep your documents up to date, and know your rights. Monitor BAMF announcements for any changes to immigration regulations. If you have concerns about your specific situation, consult a qualified immigration lawyer rather than relying on political speculation.
Source: DW English
Want news like this in your inbox?
The most relevant news for expats in Germany, no noise.
The AfD could make history in Saxony-Anhalt's state election. Here's what that means for migrants and people with a migration background living in Germany.
The AfD is using provocative live streamers to amplify its political message in Germany. Here's what this media strategy means for the political climate expats live in.
Unions, churches and sports clubs join forces to offer practical help to victims of right-wing extremist attacks and threats in Germany — including support for volunteers.
