German Court Temporarily Halts Classification of AfD as Far-Right Extremist Party
In a significant legal development, Germany's Alternative for Germany (AfD) party has secured a temporary injunction from the Administrative Court of Cologne, preventing the domestic intelligence agency (BfV) from labeling it as a confirmed right-wing extremist organization.
Background and Context
In May 2025, the BfV had classified AfD, the top opposition party, as a suspected extremist group. This move was part of the BfV's special powers to surveil and investigate members of groups it designates as extremist. Such labels can also significantly influence voter preferences.
Key Developments
The court ruling on Thursday, February 26, 2026, suspended the classification of the AfD as an undoubtedly far-right organization. The decision comes ahead of key regional elections in March and shields the party from potential bans. However, the court recognized evidence of unconstitutional actions within the party's faction but stated that the classification should wait for the results of another ongoing process regarding the subject.
The court also noted that radical statements on migration and religion by some AfD members were insufficient to assess the party’s nature as a whole. Federal law grants the BfV special powers to surveil and investigate members of groups it designates as extremist, and such labels can influence voter preferences.
Reactions and Implications
Party co-leader Alice Weidel hailed the ruling as a major victory
. The judgment also caused joy among other party leaders, as it's viewed as a win for democracy. However, the ruling is only temporary, and the substantive procedure continues.
The ruling also has implications for the extent of surveillance that the BfV can exert on the AfD. A reversal decision would have allowed the intelligence service linked to the Ministry of the Interior to intensify police surveillance of the party, including intercepting, if necessary, the private communications of its leaders.
Current Status
The court's decision is considered a first victory for the AfD, though it's only a temporary measure pending a final ruling. The legal battle against the secret services continues, and the final verdict will determine whether the AfD can be officially classified as an extremist right-wing party.