German Business Group Reverses Course, Distances Itself From Far-Right AfD
Berlin, December 1, 2023 – A prominent German business association, Die Familienunternehmer, has reversed its recent decision to open dialog with the far-right Option for Germany (AfD) party, following widespread criticism adn concerns about ancient parallels. The group initially invited AfD politicians to an event, sparking a national debate and prompting rebukes from other business leaders and trade unions.
The initial overture drew sharp criticism, with Anja Piel, a member of the executive board of the german Trade Union Confederation (DGB), urging Die Familienunternehmer’s members to clearly distance themselves from the AfD. The move also prompted comparisons to 1933, when German industrialists offered support to Adolf Hitler‘s Nazi Party.
Responding to the controversy, Die Familienunternehmer announced a policy reversal, effectively closing the door to engagement with the AfD. This followed a similar move by Deutsche Bank, which cancelled a contract with the business group for a future event.
Other leading German business organizations had already expressed their reluctance to engage with the AfD. The Federation of German Industries (BDI) stated it had “repeatedly voiced criticism of the AfD’s views, and also those of other radical parties,” and affirmed it does “not proactively seek dialogue with representatives of radical parties such as the AfD.”
The Central Association of the German Bakery Trade also emphasized its rejection of extremism, stating, “we clearly condemn unconstitutional or extremist positions that divide society.” While the guild provides information to all members of parliament upon request, it clarified it would “not proactively approach parties on the political fringe and will not invite members of parliament from these parties to association events.”
The German Farmers’ Association indicated it limits its interactions with the AfD to “the minimum required by protocol,” prioritizing engagement with governing parties. The Federal Association of Wholesale, Foreign Trade and Services (BGA) called on the AfD to explicitly denounce right-wing extremism and anti-European sentiment, stating it sees “no reason to talk to each other” until such a stance is taken.The BGA also extended this condition to the Left Party and the BSW, citing a lack of common ground.
The AfD itself welcomed the initial invitation from Die Familienunternehmer. Party leader Alice weidel stated, “It should be a matter of course for the business community and small and medium-sized enterprises to seek dialogue with representatives of the opposition, especially when they are the strongest political force in the country according to the polls,” and praised Die Familienunternehmer for its “courage.” She encouraged other business representatives to follow suit.
This article was originally published in German on November 28 and updated on December 1 to reflect Die Familienunternehmer’s policy reversal.
