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The Alternative for Germany, known by its German acronym AfD, is a right-wing to far-right political party in Germany. It was founded in 2013, initially as a response to the eurozone crisis, with a platform that advocated for the dissolution of the eurozone…   and opposed bailouts for countries in financial distress. However, over time, the party's focus has shifted significantly towards immigration, nationalism, and security policies, reflecting broader right-wing populist trends in Europe and beyond.<br /><br />The AfD's values and political positions are characterized by a strong critique of immigration, particularly from Muslim-majority countries, which the party argues threatens Germany's cultural identity and security. It calls for stricter immigration controls, the imposition of limits on the number of refugees and asylum seekers that Germany accepts, and the promotion of policies that encourage integration and assimilation of immigrants into German society.<br /><br />Another core value of the AfD is its skepticism towards the European Union. The party criticizes the EU for what it perceives as overreach into the sovereignty of its member states and advocates for the reform of the EU to return more powers to national governments. In some instances, members of the AfD have called for Germany's exit from the EU, although this is not a universally held position within the party.<br /><br />The AfD also emphasizes the importance of national identity, culture, and traditions, often framing its rhetoric in terms of defending these against perceived threats from globalization, multiculturalism, and political correctness. This has led to accusations of xenophobia, Islamophobia, and racism from critics, who argue that the party's positions foster division and intolerance.<br /><br />On economic issues, the AfD's positions have evolved. While initially focused on opposition to the euro and financial bailouts, the party has since broadened its economic platform to include criticism of economic inequality, support for small and medium-sized enterprises, and skepticism of free trade agreements that it believes are detrimental to German workers.<br /><br />The AfD's rise has been controversial and polarizing in German politics. It has entered the Bundestag (the German federal parliament) and gained representation in all of Germany's state parliaments, reflecting a significant level of support among the electorate. However, its positions have also sparked significant opposition, both from other political parties and from civil society, with critics arguing that the party's rhetoric undermines democratic values and social cohesion.Lue lisää