Analysts frame the MSC’s invitation as a procedural matter rather than a substantive endorsement, while noting potential political and reputational risks for Germany.

Some speculate the invitation could be read as avoiding U.S. pressure, given provocative comments by U.S. figures and post-event interactions with AfD leadership.

Tolerating AfD participation is seen as acknowledging democracy’s imperfections, but the party’s extremist stances remain troubling for representation in parliament.

The piece accompanying the development runs as a brief five-minute video feature with a timestamp indicating publication or update.

U.S. Vice President JD Vance had criticized the 2025 exclusion and met with AfD leaders outside the conference, highlighting ongoing tensions over the party’s participation.

The Munich Security Conference has invited the AfD to participate in 2026 after a two-year exclusion, marking a policy shift under current MSC chair Wolfgang Ischinger, who will lead again for 2026.

Invitations to politicians from all Bundestag parties were reportedly sent before Christmas, with a conference spokesman confirming the move.

The decision was made by Ischinger in consultation with the MSC’s board of trustees, signaling a deliberate change in approach.

Critics argue that yielding to the AfD is highly risky and could threaten Europe’s security, stressing that the party’s potential dangers are not yet exhausted.

The AfD is Germany’s largest opposition party with a hardline anti-immigration stance and ties to Russia, influencing debates over a possible ban after being designated right-wing extremist by domestic intelligence.

Despite concerns about Russia and China links, the conference’s policy shift occurs amid broader German debates on how to handle the party as it gains support in regional elections and faces domestic scrutiny.

Strack-Zimmermann argues that informal talks including AfD members would undermine the conference, a view she says she cannot understand.