German Business Group Reverses Decision to Engage with Far-Right AfD

Germany's Association of Family Entrepreneurs has reversed its controversial decision to engage with the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party. The group's president stated that lifting a long-standing "contact ban" was a mistake. The association, which represents thousands of mid-sized German companies, faced immediate and heavy criticism for its initial move. Many members and public figures condemned the decision as a breach of democratic norms. In response, the group's leadership has now backtracked. President Marie-Christine Ostermann publicly called the move an error, effectively reinstating the policy against formal contact with the AfD. The reversal highlights ongoing tension within German business circles regarding engagement with the populist party. It underscores a broader national debate about isolating political groups deemed extremist.