Economists have sharply criticized Alternative for Germany (AfD) co-leader Alice Weidel over her recent statements advocating for Germany's exit from the eurozone, according to a report by German business daily Handelsblatt published on Monday.
Weidel's comments, which also included insults directed at government politicians whom she reportedly called "Flachzangen" (a derogatory German term), have triggered a debate within the party about its direction on European monetary policy. The remarks were covered by multiple German outlets, including WELT and ZDFheute, which noted the AfD is now searching for a unified position on the euro.
The criticism from economists, as detailed by Handelsblatt, centers on the economic risks and feasibility of reintroducing a national currency. The report suggests that Weidel's push for a euro exit has created internal friction, with party members divided over how aggressively to pursue the issue ahead of upcoming elections.
According to ZDFheute, the controversy has left the AfD "on a course search," indicating that Weidel's hardline stance may not be universally supported within the party ranks. The reports also reference Weidel's broader attacks on the political establishment, including a separate Handelsblatt article quoting her claim that the Christian Democratic Union (CDU) will never win another federal election.
The timing of the controversy is notable, as it comes amid ongoing debates in Germany about economic competitiveness and the future of the European Union. Weidel's position marks a significant shift for the AfD, which has previously been less vocal about leaving the euro despite its eurosceptic platform.
Observers will be watching whether the party leadership can reconcile Weidel's provocative stance with the need to appeal to a broader electorate, or if the euro exit proposal will further polarize the party's base.
