Deutschlands christliche Kirchen nehmen Stellung gegen die extreme Rechte

Germany’s Christian churches are mounting a visible and vocal campaign against the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD), as the political landscape in Saxony-Anhalt becomes increasingly polarized ahead of state elections on September 6. Across the region, signs bearing messages such as “Love thy neighbor, dialogue, human dignity, solidarity. VOTE CONSCIOUSLY!” and “DIVERSITY IS DIVINE” adorn the facades of both Catholic and Protestant churches. These displays reflect growing concern among religious institutions over the rising influence of the AfD, a party currently leading in local polls and widely regarded as a threat to democratic norms. The tension between the churches and the AfD has escalated significantly in recent months. During a pilgrimage event in September 2025, Bishop Gerhard Feige of Magdeburg made a pointed remark about the dangers of voting impulsively, referencing the AfD’s signature blue color. His comments were met with extended applause, suggesting that even within religious circles, there is recognition of the party’s growing appeal. This moment underscores the deepening divide between traditional values upheld by the churches and the populist rhetoric of the AfD. The AfD has positioned itself as a direct opponent to the influence of religious institutions in public life. Its recently adopted government program includes proposals to end state funding for both Protestant and Catholic churches, as well as the elimination of church tax collection by public authorities, a service currently funded by the churches themselves. Additionally, the party has criticized the practice of granting asylum to refugees on church premises, arguing that such actions should result in financial penalties for the churches. These policies extend to educational institutions linked to the churches. The Protestant Academy of Saxony-Anhalt, which receives state funding, faces potential cuts under the AfD’s plan. The party accuses the academy of promoting “climate dogma, gender ideology, and the rainbow cult,” while also claiming it advocates for unchecked immigration. However, Saxony-Anhalt has one of the lowest proportions of foreign nationals in Germany, making these accusations appear contradictory. The conflict between the AfD and the churches has grown sharper than ever before. Previously, the party had focused on complaints about exclusion from religious gatherings, but now it openly challenges the role of the churches in society. In February 2024, the German Catholic Bishops’ Conference issued a unified statement declaring that ethnic nationalism and Christianity are incompatible. The document specifically highlighted the presence of genuine right-wing extremism within the AfD, a stance reinforced by the upcoming elections in several eastern German states, including Saxony-Anhalt. Religious leaders have become increasingly active in countering the AfD’s influence. They emphasize themes of unity, compassion, and democratic principles through public messaging and sermons. Their efforts are aimed at reminding voters of the importance of conscious decision-making during the election process. Despite the relatively small percentage of the population that identifies with organized religion, only 13% in Saxony-Anhalt, the churches continue to serve as influential voices in shaping public discourse. The situation in Saxony-Anhalt reflects broader tensions across Germany regarding the role of religion in politics and the rise of far-right movements. With the AfD poised to gain power, the churches are stepping up their opposition, using their platforms to promote values of inclusivity and social responsibility. As the election date approaches, the intensity of this confrontation is likely to increase, further highlighting the complex interplay between faith, politics, and identity in modern Germany.