Sat Feb 15 10:40:11 UTC 2025: ## Scholz Rejects Vance’s Criticism of Germany’s Stance on Far-Right and Hate Speech

**Munich, Germany** – German Chancellor Olaf Scholz sharply rebuked US Vice President JD Vance on Saturday for criticizing Europe’s approach to hate speech and the far-right, asserting that it is inappropriate for external actors to dictate Germany’s internal policies.

Vance, speaking at the Munich Security Conference on Friday, condemned what he perceived as censorship in Europe and criticized the major German parties’ refusal to cooperate with the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party. He focused his speech less on the Ukraine conflict and more on what he sees as a decline in free speech and uncontrolled immigration in Europe.

Scholz firmly rejected Vance’s criticism, stating that it is unacceptable for allies to advise Germany on how to engage with the AfD, a party with around 20% support in polls ahead of regional elections on February 23rd. He underscored Germany’s historical context, emphasizing the nation’s unwavering commitment to preventing a resurgence of fascism, racism, and aggressive war. Scholz argued that Germany’s regulations regarding hate speech are not restrictive but rather protective of democratic freedoms, designed to safeguard democracy from extremist threats. The Chancellor highlighted the importance of these institutions in preventing a repeat of Germany’s past. The unexpected focus on internal European issues overshadowed anticipated discussions regarding the ongoing Ukraine conflict at the conference.

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