Christian Klein, chief executive of SAP, warned that the AfD’s political gains could damage Germany’s business climate. Speaking on POLITICO’s Berlin Playbook podcast, he asked, “Would you feel welcomed under the AfD’s politics? Absolutely not”.
Klein also voiced frustration over the country’s political shortcomings, especially in digitalisation. “I’m frustrated by regulation and the lack of digital progress” he said. He argued that the AfD offers no solid answers to the country’s key challenges. “When you look at the AfD, what solutions do they propose? They’re rather thin” he added.
The company relies on skilled workers from abroad-India, the United States, Scandinavia, and others-so “we need people who come to Germany” Klein said. With the AfD’s agenda, the influx of talent could be threatened, a development he described as “a fatal sign”.
Finally, Klein appealed to the established parties. The problems are known and have been debated for years. “It’s time to set aside party posturing and ask: What’s important for Germany?” he urged. “Economic growth and European unity are essential. We need growth for strength, and we need to remain part of Europe”.