In a recent interview with Deutschlandfunk, broadcast on December 21, 2025, the chairman of the German Bishops’ Conference, Bishop Georg Bätzing of Limburg, addressed issues of societal alignment, migration, and political boundaries.
Church and Society
Bishop Bätzing stated his belief that the Catholic Church shares common ground with the majority of German society, explicitly including both the CDU and SPD political parties. He emphasized the need for new approaches to discussing migration, describing the current climate where migration has become a source of fear as “devastating.” He clarified that while migration is necessary, it should not be unrestricted.
Political Concerns
Bätzing urged political leaders to maintain a firm barrier against the AfD party “for as long as possible,” even suggesting openness to minority governments if necessary. He characterized the AfD’s ideology of “völkischer Nationalismus” – ethnic nationalism – as inhumane. He warned that should the AfD gain political power, those who the party attempts to attract would be the first to recognize the danger.
Implications and Potential Scenarios
The Bishop’s statements could signal an effort to position the Church as a unifying force within German society. A continued hard line against the AfD by mainstream parties may lead to further political fragmentation, potentially increasing the likelihood of minority governments. Conversely, a softening of this stance could open avenues for the AfD to gain broader acceptance, a scenario Bätzing explicitly cautioned against.
Frequently Asked Questions
What parties did Bishop Bätzing specifically mention as being aligned with the Church?
Bishop Bätzing specifically mentioned the CDU and SPD as being part of the “large majority of the center of society” with whom the Church shares common ground.
What did Bishop Bätzing say about migration?
Bishop Bätzing stated that migration has become a source of fear, which he described as “devastating.” He also said that while migration is necessary, it should not be “unrestricted.”
What was Bishop Bätzing’s position on the AfD?
Bishop Bätzing called for a firm barrier to be maintained against the AfD “for as long as possible” and described the party’s ideology as inhumane.
Given the Bishop’s emphasis on the need for new narratives surrounding migration, what role do you believe religious institutions can play in shaping public discourse on this complex issue?
