The AfD also sees the Brexit vote as a role model for Germany. In an interview, federal spokeswoman Alice Weidel emphasized that her party’s original goal was to reform the EU. In Germany, at least since reports of a controversial conference with right-wing extremists in Potsdam, there has been discussion about whether legal action can be taken against the right-wing populist Alternative for Germany (see video above).
“If such a reform is not possible, if we cannot restore the sovereignty of the EU member states, then the citizens must decide, just like in Britain,” Weidel told the Financial Times on Monday. “And we could hold a referendum on ‘Dexit’ – a German departure from the EU.” Britain’s departure from the EU was “absolutely right” as a sovereign decision, Weidel said. The 2016 vote was a “model for Germany”.
A government led by her party would try to reform the EU and address its “democratic deficit”. In Germany, referendums at federal level are not provided for in the constitution, with the exception of the reorganization of federal states. To make a referendum possible, the Basic Law would first have to be amended by a two-thirds majority in the Bundestag and the Bundesrat.
SPD: That would play into Putin’s hands
European SPD politician Katharina Barley sharply criticized Weidel’s move. “The AfD’s plan is to overshadow Germany,” she told the German news agency. Moreover, such a move would play into the hands of Russian President Vladimir Putin. “Putin wants nothing more than an EU that falls apart,” said Barley, who will most likely lead the SPD as its top candidate in the EU parliamentary elections.
Source: Krone
I am Wallace Jones, an experienced journalist. I specialize in writing for the world section of Today Times Live. With over a decade of experience, I have developed an eye for detail when it comes to reporting on local and global stories. My passion lies in uncovering the truth through my investigative skills and creating thought-provoking content that resonates with readers worldwide.
