Key Takeaways:

• Friedrich Merz plans to present tougher migration proposals in the German parliament, possibly backed by the far-right AfD.
• The CDU/CSU leader’s shift in position raises concerns about breaking a long-standing taboo against collaboration with extremist parties.
• Chancellor Olaf Scholz and other critics argue this decision undermines democratic principles and could alienate centrist voters.
• Recent violent incidents involving asylum-seekers have intensified national debate over immigration policy as elections approach.

As Germany approaches its upcoming elections, Friedrich Merz, the leader of the CDU/CSU conservative bloc, is poised to unveil significant changes to the country’s migration policies. This move, seen as an attempt to bring more stringent controls after a recent violent incident involving an asylum-seeker, marks a potentially controversial collaboration with the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party, challenging a strong political norm in the country. According to Reuters, Merz’s proposals aim to impose tougher border controls and restrictions on irregular migration, a policy shift that has stirred heated debates within the Bundestag.

Following the tragic stabbing attack in Aschaffenburg, where an Afghan asylum seeker was involved, Merz is under pressure to deliver on migration policy as a central campaign issue. His strategy centers on appealing to voters who prioritize national security and order, especially in light of recent asylum-related violence. Merz is presenting a series of motions in parliament that call for increased security measures and the closure of borders to irregular migration, while also seeking practical support from opposition parties, including the AfD, as reported by the Associated Press.

The implications of Merz's rapprochement with the AfD are significant, as it threatens to dismantle a 'firewall' that has traditionally kept mainstream parties from aligning with far-right factions. Scholars and politicians alike warn that this could legitimize the AfD and position it as a viable political force despite its extremist leanings. Chancellor Olaf Scholz condemned Merz’s tactics as an "unforgivable mistake," indicating a deep rift in Germany's political discourse regarding immigration and the far-right, as noted by BBC.

In recent polls, Merz's CDU/CSU party leads with approximately 30% support, yet the AfD is close behind, indicating a rising interest in their policies among the electorate. However, Merz's recent vow to cooperate with the AfD, albeit indirect, has raised questions about whether he can maintain support from centrist voters while courting the far-right. Critics emphasize that this could signal a departure from the centrist policies championed by Angela Merkel, raising concerns over the long-term implications for German democracy and social cohesion.

Compounding the controversy is the legal and ethical debate on Merz's proposed measures. While he insists on the necessity of these changes for public safety, opposition leaders label his approach as incompatible with both German and European Union laws. This battle over migration policy is set against a backdrop of socio-political changes in Germany, framing migration as one of the most contentious issues leading up to the elections on February 23rd.

Merz’s plan, though largely symbolic at this stage, sets the stage for a critical examination of Germany's relationship with the far-right and may redefine the political landscape as the elections loom. The implications of this political gamble by Merz will be closely monitored both domestically and across Europe.

For more details, read the full articles from Reuters, AP News, and BBC.