Scholz Challenges U.S. Over Hate Speech Criticism

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz rebuked U.S. VP JD Vance's critique of Europe's hate speech policies at the Munich Security Conference. Scholz defends Germany's stance against the far-right AfD amid the historical context of Nazi Germany and highlights the importance of democratic institutions in safeguarding freedoms.

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz issued a firm rebuttal to U.S. Vice President JD Vance's criticism of Europe's approach to hate speech and far-right politics. Scholz, speaking at the Munich Security Conference, emphasized it was inappropriate for external parties to dictate Germany and Europe's political strategies.

Scholz's comments came after Vance attacked European leaders for supposedly censoring free speech and criticized Germany's resistance to engaging with the far-right party AfD. Scholz highlighted Germany's historical context, referencing its Nazi past, to stress why mainstream parties reject AfD.

While many anticipated the conference would focus on the Ukraine-Russia conflict, Vance shifted the spotlight to immigration and free speech concerns, which he believes are Europe's primary challenges. Scholz countered by underlining the need for democratic safeguards to protect societal freedoms.

(With inputs from agencies.)