Thousands Rally in Leipzig Against AfD Migration Reforms

In Leipzig, approximately 5,000 protesters rallied against the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) following its support for a controversial migration reform in the German parliament, marking a historic moment as the AfD joined a parliamentary majority for the first time. Demonstrators called for the defense of asylum rights and symbolically erected a 'firewall' to represent mainstream parties' refusal to collaborate with the AfD. Similar protests occurred in Dresden, where conservative leader Friedrich Merz was campaigning, as the election campaign increasingly centers on illegal migration issues. Prominent German actors have also voiced their opposition through an open letter, urging political leaders to uphold democratic values and reject cooperation with the AfD. The CDU/CSU alliance is set to introduce further migration reform measures, which the AfD has indicated it will support. Concerns about the implications for democracy have been raised, as the AfD continues to gain popularity in the lead-up to national elections.