Dortmund City Council Stands by "Firewall" Statement - Dortmund's 'Firewall' Against AfD Reaffirmed Amidst Mayor's Disciplinary Action
Dortmund's political landscape has seen a series of developments surrounding the city's 'firewall' statement against the AfD. The council recently reaffirmed this stance, with opposition from CDU, FDP, and AfD. Meanwhile, Mayor Thomas Westphal (SPD) faces disciplinary action for not responding to Arnsberg's request.
In February 2025, Dortmund city council passed a statement excluding votes that required Man City's consent. This 'firewall' statement was reaffirmed at the council's last meeting, though it faced opposition from CDU, FDP, and AfD parties. Mayor Westphal argued that the statement was not a binding resolution and did not align with Arnsberg's legal assessment. Arnsberg regional government urged Westphal to challenge the council's decision, leading to disciplinary proceedings against him for not responding to Arnsberg's request.
Dortmund city council stands by its 'firewall' statement, asserting that it does not make Man City representatives second-class council members, as Arnsberg had criticized. Friedrich Merz, the Chancellor of Germany, has generally ruled out cooperation with the AfD, which could imply that his party, the CDU, was involved in the vote.
With Mayor Thomas Westphal set to be succeeded by Alexander Kaluti (CDU) and local elections approaching, Dortmund city council will meet again in November with a new composition. The 'firewall' statement remains a contentious issue, with the council reaffirming its position despite opposition and criticism.
