Europapark Founder on AfD: Dialogue Must Be Possible - German family business group lifts AfD ban, sparking fierce corporate backlash

The Association of Family Businesses has sparked debate by inviting far-right AfD lawmakers to its events. Marie-Christine Ostermann, its president, recently lifted a long-standing ban on contact with the party. The move has drawn both support and criticism from prominent business figures. In October 2022, the association extended an invitation to AfD members of parliament for the first time. This decision marked a shift in policy under Ostermann’s leadership.

Roland Mack, founder of Europa-Park and a member of the association, publicly backed the change. He argued that engaging with the AfD is necessary due to its electoral weight. Mack also stated that dialogue does not mean agreeing with the party or making joint decisions.

The invitation led to backlash from some members. Drugstore chain Rossmann and appliance manufacturer Vorwerk both left the association in protest. The association now permits interaction with AfD representatives. Some businesses have distanced themselves as a result. The decision reflects a broader debate over how organisations should engage with rising political forces.