German spy agency pauses 'extremist' classification for AfD party

japantimes.co.jpPublished: 5/9/2025

Summary

Germany's domestic spy agency, BfV, has paused its classification of the Alternative for Germany (AfD) as an extremist organization following court proceedings in Cologne, prompting mixed reactions from political factions. AfD is calling this move a partial victory, while some lawmakers have demanded stricter restrictions on the group and labeled it an attack on democracy.