AfD party congress begins despite protests and blockades

The far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party congress started on time in Erfurt, Thuringia, on July 4, 2026, despite massive protests. Tens of thousands of demonstrators gathered, with at least 15,000 reported by MDR correspondent Cornelia Hartmann. Activists blocked highways and access roads, and occupied a central square in Erfurt. The congress coincides with the centenary of a Nazi rally in Thuringia, adding to the controversy.