German politician Alice Weidel, a member of the Alternative for Germany (AfD) party and a rival to current German Chancellor Olaf Scholz in the upcoming elections, has called for Germany to leave the European Union, claiming that it has a negative impact on the country’s economy. This was reported by Bloomberg on December 19.
Weidel, who is known for her controversial statements and far-right views, made the call during a speech at a party conference in the city of Kassel. She argued that the EU’s policies, such as open borders and the common currency, have led to economic problems for Germany and its citizens.
According to Weidel, the EU’s free movement of people has resulted in an influx of low-skilled workers who compete with German citizens for jobs and drive down wages. She also criticized the EU’s common currency, the euro, for causing economic imbalances between member states and burdening Germany with the financial responsibility for weaker economies.
Weidel’s call for Germany to leave the EU is not a new one. The AfD party, which was founded in 2013, has long been advocating for Germany’s withdrawal from the EU. However, Weidel’s statement comes at a crucial time, as Germany prepares for federal elections in September 2021.
Her comments have sparked a heated debate in Germany, with many politicians and experts dismissing her claims as unfounded and dangerous. They argue that Germany’s membership in the EU has brought numerous benefits, such as access to a large market and political stability, and leaving the union would have severe consequences for the country’s economy.
In response to Weidel’s statements, German Economy Minister Peter Altmaier stated that leaving the EU would be «economic suicide» for Germany. He emphasized that the EU is the largest trading partner for Germany, and leaving the union would result in significant economic losses.
Moreover, other politicians have accused Weidel of using anti-EU rhetoric to gain support from voters who are dissatisfied with the current government’s policies. They argue that her call for Germany to leave the EU is a populist move to attract voters and has no real substance.
Despite the criticism, Weidel remains firm in her stance and has promised to make Germany’s withdrawal from the EU a key issue in the upcoming elections. She believes that leaving the EU would allow Germany to regain control over its borders and economy and make decisions that are in the best interest of its citizens.
However, experts warn that leaving the EU would not be a simple process and would have significant economic and political consequences. Germany’s economy is heavily reliant on trade with other EU member states, and leaving the union would disrupt this trade and potentially lead to a recession.
In addition, Germany’s withdrawal from the EU would also have political implications, as the country plays a crucial role in the union’s decision-making processes. It would also weaken the EU as a whole, as Germany is one of its largest and most influential members.
In conclusion, Alice Weidel’s call for Germany to leave the EU has sparked a heated debate in the country. While she argues that the EU has a negative impact on Germany’s economy, many experts and politicians disagree and warn of the consequences of leaving the union. As the country prepares for federal elections, Weidel’s stance on the EU will continue to be a divisive issue, and it remains to be seen how much support she will gain from voters.
