Is there a crack in Germany’s political firewall against the far right?

Germany’s likely next Chancellor Friedrich Merz just shook up the election campaign. He took a major political risk by relying on the far-right AfD for a majority in parliament for the first time. Tens of thousands took to the streets protesting the move. Did Merz just cancel his smooth ride to the chancellory? Or could he break the political paralysis around the AfD’s lifeblood issue: Migration.

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We break down how events like Russia's war in Ukraine and European security shifts are shaping Germany - and the world. Whether you’re a student, journalist, or policymaker, hosts Nina Haase, Michaela Küfner, and Richard Walker deliver the insights you need to understand where Germany is headed and why it matters, with a hint of Berlin's distinct energy. Published every Friday. Find us also on YouTube: @dwnews. Subscribe to our newsletter: dw.com/berlinbriefing. Leave us a comment here: newsletter@dw.com. Or find us on X: @dw_politics.