A German court has ruled that the country’s domestic intelligence agency can continue to monitor the Bavarian branch of the far-right opposition party, the Alternative for Germany (AfD), in a decision that could intensify political tensions nationwide.
The Bavarian Administrative Court of Appeal on Wednesday rejected an appeal by AfD against surveillance by the Federal Office for the Protection of the Constitution (BfV), Germany’s domestic intelligence agency. The ruling allows Bavarian authorities to maintain oversight of the party’s regional operations, citing concerns over extremist tendencies.
The decision comes at a time when AfD has emerged as Germany’s most popular political party in recent opinion polls, overtaking traditional mainstream rivals. According to a recent INSA survey, the party commands 29% national support, reflecting growing public dissatisfaction with Chancellor Friedrich Merz and his government.
Founded in 2013, Alternative for Germany (AfD) has built its support base on strong anti-immigration policies, opposition to Germany’s military and financial support for Ukraine, and criticism of EU-led sanctions against Russia. In Germany’s federal elections earlier this year, AfD secured second place with 20% of the vote, winning 152 seats in the Bundestag.
Despite its electoral gains, the party was excluded from coalition negotiations under Germany’s long-standing political “firewall” policy, which prevents mainstream parties from cooperating with AfD.
Why the Court Backed Surveillance
The court said previous rulings had already established a sufficient legal basis for surveillance, pointing to AfD-linked statements on “remigration,” Islam, and alleged anti-democratic rhetoric.
German intelligence agencies argue that some factions within AfD pose a threat to the constitutional order. In May 2026, the federal BfV upgraded the party’s classification to “confirmed right-wing extremist,” although that designation was temporarily suspended after legal action by AfD.
If the federal agency eventually secures that label in court, it would gain expanded powers to monitor the party, including wiretaps, informants, and broader intelligence gathering.
Growing Pressure Across German States
AfD is already under increased scrutiny across multiple German states. Authorities in Lower Saxony recently designated the party’s regional branch as a confirmed extremist organization, accusing it of undermining democratic institutions and promoting discriminatory views toward migrants.
Similar classifications are already in place in Brandenburg, Saxony, Saxony-Anhalt, and Thuringia, while regional branches in Rhineland-Palatinate and Saarland remain under suspicion.
Political Impact on Germany
The ruling is likely to deepen divisions in German politics, where AfD’s popularity continues to rise amid economic uncertainty, migration debates, and public frustration with the ruling coalition.
Critics argue that surveillance of Germany’s leading opposition party raises serious questions about democracy and political freedom, while supporters insist it is necessary to protect constitutional order.
With AfD’s legal battle against federal intelligence agencies still ongoing, the outcome could have major consequences for Germany’s political landscape — and for Europe’s broader right-wing movement.
