The newly appointed co-chair of the German “Basiswürde, Solidarität, Rechtstoleranz” (BSW) party, Fabio De Masi, has sought to define the political trajectory of the burgeoning party, signaling a nuanced and potentially strategically complex, approach to its relationship with the right-wing Alternative for Germany (AfD). While definitively ruling out a formal coalition with the AfD, De Masi’s statements to the “Tagesspiegel” suggest a willingness to engage selectively with the party’s parliamentary activities.
Specifically, De Masi indicated openness to electing AfD members to parliamentary committee positions and supporting their proposals, a move that has already drawn criticism from within the established political landscape. He framed this position as pragmatic, emphasizing a focus on evaluating proposals based on their substance rather than rejecting them outright due to the AfD’s association. “We do not reject firewalls regarding committee leaderships and examine proposals based on their content” he stated, hinting at a willingness to compromise on principle in pursuit of practical gains.
Looking ahead to the 2026 state elections, De Masi proposed the formation of “expert governments” – a system characterized by shifting majorities and potentially reliant on ad hoc alliances. This suggestion appears designed to move beyond the current polarized political climate, explicitly rejecting both broad, all-inclusive coalitions aimed solely at containing the AfD and narrow, ideologically driven anti-AfD blocs. De Masi argued that both approaches fail to adequately address the underlying discontent driving support for alternative political movements, implying a desire to position BSW as a more responsive and nuanced alternative.
This shift in rhetoric and strategy comes after the recent departure of Sahra Wagenknecht from the party leadership, with De Masi jointly assuming the role with Amira Mohamed Ali. Wagenknecht now heads the party’s fundamental values commission, a move which potentially allows her to exert influence from a different vantage point. De Masi has signaled an intention to modernize internal party structures, prioritizing the participation of the party’s 11,000 members – many of whom are new to politics – and moving beyond a reliance on media appearances to guide the party’s direction. The move to democratize internal decision-making raises questions about the potential for internal divisions and the ability of the leadership to maintain a cohesive political agenda.
The ambiguity in BSW’s stance, while aiming for broader appeal, also presents a considerable risk. Critics argue that any engagement with AfD parliamentarians, regardless of the rationale, risks lending legitimacy to a party often accused of extremist views and undermining BSW’s own declared commitment to democratic values. The future success of the party hinges on its ability to navigate this delicate balance, establishing itself as a viable political force without being drawn too closely into the orbit of the far-right.