The march of the AfD youth organisation. Photo: Markus Scholz DPA
The youth organisation Junge Alternative, affiliated with the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD), has announced its self-dissolution to avoid possible legal prosecution and a ban. This decision paves the way for the creation of a new youth association that will be under the full control of the party, Politico writes .
Dissolution for survival
In 2023, the German Federal Office for the Protection of the Constitution classified Junge Alternative as an extremist group. This threatened to officially ban it on the basis of legislation aimed at preventing a repeat of the country’s Nazi past.
The legal liquidation of the youth wing is beneficial for the AfD itself, as the organisational ties between the party and Junge Alternative could have jeopardised the entire political movement. Instead, the party will create a new youth structure that will formally be under the direct control of the AfD leadership, although it will include many former members.
Political manoeuvre before the elections
Experts note that this is more of a tactical move than a change in ideology. The AfD is seeking to shed its reputation as a radical party ahead of the upcoming elections and at the same time attract new young voters.
However, the influence of the youth wing is growing. Junge Alternative has been actively using social media, including TikTok, to spread right-wing rhetoric and has even developed a video game advocating mass deportations of migrants.
In the 23 February election, the AfD won 21% of the vote among voters aged 18 to 21, up 14% from the previous national election.
The creation of the new youth branch will allow the AfD to avoid legal action more easily and at the same time strengthen its influence among young voters.
