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Massimo Cacciari Warns Against AfD Ban
Massimo Cacciari, renowned Italian philosopher and former mayor of Venice, has issued a stark warning against banning Germany's Alternative für Deutschland (AfD) party. His concern? Such a move, he argues, would be a dangerous blow to German, and indeed European, democracy.
A Trial Balloon or a Dangerous Precedent?
Following investigations by German secret services into the AfD, a party currently polling over 20%, Cacciari dismisses the probes as mere "ballon d’essai"—trial balloons designed to gauge public reaction. He vehemently opposes a ban, calling it "mad" to outlaw a party with such substantial public support. While acknowledging the AfD's marginalization by media and social media, he emphasizes that formal legal exclusion is a vastly different—and far more damaging—matter.
The Risks of Political Suppression
Cacciari's argument rests on the potential for a ban to backfire spectacularly. He predicts that outlawing the AfD could boost its support, pushing it to even greater heights. This echoes concerns across Europe about the rise of right-wing populism and the effectiveness of traditional responses. He advocates for a political, rather than judicial, solution, arguing that “extremism is fought with politics, not with tribunals.”
A Failing Left?
Cacciari further criticizes the European political elite, particularly the left, for failing to effectively counter the rise of right-wing populism. He suggests that their policies have inadvertently fueled the AfD's growth and that a failure to connect with voters on key issues is at the heart of the problem. The German government now faces a crucial vote of confidence, highlighting the high stakes involved.
Cacciari's Conclusion: Democratic Suicide
In conclusion, Cacciari's warning is clear: banning the AfD would be democratic suicide. He believes that the political elite are resorting to questionable laws instead of engaging in genuine political debate. The ongoing situation in Germany serves as a potent reminder of the delicate balance democracies must maintain when grappling with extremist ideologies. The need for open political dialogue, rather than suppression, has never been more critical.
