The European People's Party (EPP) secretly collaborated with the far-right Alternative für Deutschland (AfD) and other right-wing factions on a controversial migration bill.
According to dpa investigative reporting, the cooperation occurred through a WhatsApp group and an in-person meeting on March 4 involving MEPs from EPP, AfD, Rassemblement National, and Brothers of Italy. The legislative proposal enables deportation of asylum seekers to non-EU 'return hubs'.
The draft stalled for months until EPP engaged right-wing groups after failing to secure support from Social Democrats and Liberals. AfD MEP Mary Khan pushed for medical age testing of minors; her office’s suggestions were adopted with EPP staff responding, "We can support this."
A committee majority was secured following the deal, celebrated in the chat with "Thank you very much for this excellent cooperation" and an applauding emoji. Manfred Weber, EPP leader, denied political significance, claiming he doesn’t control staff communications.
Federal Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt backs the return centers plan, developed with four EU nations. Critics warn it risks violating fundamental refugee rights.