Germany's Merz warns against right-wing radicalism and reaffirms centrist course

Saturday 21 February 2026 - 10:00

By: Sahili Aya

Germany's Merz warns against right-wing radicalism and reaffirms centrist course

Germany’s chancellor, Friedrich Merz, has reaffirmed his commitment to centrist politics, firmly rejecting any cooperation with far-right movements and warning against the normalization of extremist rhetoric in public life.

Speaking at a party conference of the Christian Democratic Union (CDU) in Stuttgart, Merz underlined that his government would continue to seek political legitimacy within the democratic center. He stressed that maintaining stability and institutional credibility requires clear boundaries against radical forces.

Merz made it clear that the CDU would not reconsider its long-standing refusal to collaborate with the Alternative for Germany (AfD), a party often associated with nationalist and populist positions. According to the chancellor, protecting Germany’s democratic framework and historical responsibility must take precedence over short-term electoral gains.

He acknowledged that this strategic positioning currently limits coalition options, effectively sustaining cooperation with the Social Democratic Party of Germany (SPD). The CDU and SPD have governed together in a centrist alliance aimed at ensuring political continuity and economic stability.

Merz also warned against the risk of right-wing radicalism gaining institutional footholds, particularly ahead of upcoming regional elections in eastern Germany. He called on party members to remain vigilant and to defend democratic values at both federal and state levels.

The address reflects ongoing debates within German politics about how mainstream parties should respond to the rise of populist and nationalist movements across Europe. By reaffirming a centrist course, Merz signaled that his leadership will prioritize democratic consensus over ideological polarization.