Demonstrators and Police Clash at AfD Congress in Germany as Party Faces Internal Divisions and Scandals

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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