All other parliamentary factions opposed the measure, affirming their support for diversity, tolerance, and democratic values.
AfD Pushes to Remove Symbol of Inclusion, Faces Broad Resistance
The AfD’s proposed legislation aimed to ban the rainbow flag—an international symbol of diversity, equality, and acceptance—from being flown on government buildings. However, the party stood alone in its efforts. Representatives of every other party firmly dismissed the motion during the parliamentary session.
AfD Frames Motion as Defense of National Symbols
In a speech supporting the bill, AfD lawmaker Jörg Baumann invoked the historical origins of the German national flag, linking it to the anti-Napoleonic Wars. He described the rainbow flag as a “letter-salad flag” and claimed its presence on public buildings was an “insult and a show of contempt for our homeland.” The party proposed that only the federal flag, the Bavarian state flag, and municipal flags be allowed on public institutions. Baumann also voiced opposition to flying the EU, Israeli, or Ukrainian flags.
Attempt to Pressure CSU Fails as Conservatives Denounce Proposal
AfD representative Florian Köhler used the debate to challenge the conservative Christian Social Union (CSU), urging them to reject what he termed “left-wing, anti-German forces.” He argued that public institutions should remain neutral and free of “colorful ideas,” which politicians could pursue privately, but not in public office.
CSU lawmaker Peter Wachler responded with strong condemnation, calling the AfD’s proposal an “attack on diversity, tolerance, and our democratic order.” He compared it to “one of the darkest chapters in German history” and accused the AfD of rejecting symbols of international solidarity. Addressing AfD member Benjamin Nolte directly, Wachler said the rhetoric used was more akin to “leftist or green radicals” than to conservatives.
Unified Opposition from Free Voters, Greens, and SPD
Other parties echoed the rejection. Martin Scharf of the Free Voters emphasized that flags such as the rainbow flag do not compete with official state symbols but reflect important social values. Green Party member Florian Siekmann dismissed the proposal as “legislative theater,” pointing out the flag’s historical ties to movements for justice dating back centuries. SPD legislator Doris Rauscher stressed that citizens clearly understand the rainbow flag as a symbol of acceptance and inclusion.
Rainbow Flag to Remain on Display at State Parliament
Despite the AfD’s efforts, the tradition of flying the rainbow flag at the Bavarian State Parliament will continue. As in previous years, the flag will be raised at the Maximilianeum during Pride Week in late June. According to the Bavarian State Chancellery, the rainbow flag’s display during Christopher Street Day is a well-established sign of solidarity and inclusion—an initiative expressly supported by Minister President Markus Söder.
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