In the western German city of Essen, protests erupted as the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party held its summer conference. Clashes with police ensued, with officers resorting to pepper spray after attempts to breach a police cordon. The gathering attracted significant attention, with up to 100,000 protesters expected, most of whom authorities anticipated would demonstrate peacefully. This event comes at a pivotal moment for the AfD, which has seen recent electoral successes despite controversies, including allegations of extremist rhetoric and connections to foreign interference. The conference is seen as a crucial moment for the AfD to address internal divisions and set its strategy ahead of key elections.
Demonstrators clashed with police in Essen, Germany, where the far-right AfD party was holding its summer conference.
Police used pepper spray after some demonstrators tried to break through a police cordon.
Up to 100,000 protesters are expected to demonstrate outside the event over two days.
The AfD has experienced recent electoral successes despite controversies and scandals, including accusations of using Nazi slogans and connections to foreign interference.
The conference aims to project leadership and stability, focusing on anti-migration policies amid internal divisions.
Protesters, including unions, churches, and various civil society groups, aim to show that the AfD is not welcome in Essen.
The AfD’s focus on migration issues continues to resonate with a significant portion of the electorate, particularly in the context of recent violent incidents in Germany.
The party aims to maintain unity and discipline to capitalize on its position in upcoming key regional elections.
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