The Bundestag’s annual youth simulation program, ‘Youth and Parliament,’ intended to foster political engagement among Germany’s youth, has been overshadowed by allegations of racism, exclusion, and even physical violence. This year’s event, held from June 6 to June 9, saw 270 young participants from across the nation assume the roles of top politicians, forming fictional factions, debating policies, and passing mock legislation. However, the program’s goal of transcending personal political affiliations faltered under the weight of divisive accusations.
Participants invited by the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party claimed they faced systemic exclusion and suppression of their views. Luis Wassen, an AfD nominee, alleged in a social media video that his group was actively marginalized and branded as ‘Nazis.’ Conversely, Toby Luttermann, a member of the conservative Junge Union, refuted these claims, stating that efforts were made to include all participants. Luttermann accused some AfD nominees of repeatedly breaking character by introducing inflammatory topics such as ‘remigration’ and ‘Pride Month.’
The controversy escalated when over 50 participants signed an open letter accusing certain individuals of making racist remarks and displaying far-right symbols. A Bundestag spokesperson confirmed the exclusion of one participant, affiliated with the AfD youth organization, for allegedly using the ‘White Power’ hand gesture—a symbol linked to extremist ideologies. The participant denied the accusation, claiming it was merely an ‘Okay’ sign. Glenn Gashi, another attendee, recounted physical altercations, including an incident where someone attempted to rip a Germany emblem from his suit, further highlighting the pervasive tensions.
Reports of violence extended beyond the parliamentary chambers. Alice Weidel, AfD’s parliamentary leader, alleged that a female participant was assaulted after calling others ‘Nazi sluts.’ While police confirmed mutual physical altercations at the hotel housing the participants, they stated that the incidents could not be definitively linked to political motives. Investigations remain ongoing.
In response to the turmoil, the Bundestag’s Council of Elders—a body comprising the parliamentary president, deputies, and senior lawmakers—has begun reviewing the allegations. The council aims to determine whether structural changes are needed to prevent future incidents. As Germany grapples with rising political polarization, the fallout from ‘Youth and Parliament’ underscores the challenges of fostering constructive dialogue among ideologically diverse groups.