Third, the previous Kohl government was the first to recognize the new states of Serbia and Croatia, which the PDS opposed. Pro-capitalist forces led these new states, and the German government favored the dissolution of Yugoslavia because it could better economically dominate a divided Yugoslavia. The party opposed their viewpoints, and their participation made international anti-war unity difficult. The PDS is devoted to internationalist positions and activities, has made no concessions to nationalist politics, and is not allied with the Russian Communist Party because of their anti-Semitism. The PDS believes that what is needed is a retreat to internationalism, instead of the forward movement to nationalism brought on by the break-up of the old Soviet bloc.
Nationalism is now strong in contemporary Europe.
We do not support the IRA, the Basque separatists, or other separatist movements, though the PDS tends to be pluralistic, so there are voices who do support certain movements for national independence, particularly in regards to the Kurdish question. There is also solidarity with the Palestinian movement, though the PDS recognizes Germany s historic role in the holocaust and supports the right of Israel to exist. The issue of immigrants is key to contemporary German politics. The Government has lifted article 60.3 of the constitution, which gave all politically persecuted people the right to asylum in Germany. Among the German population there is a broad consensus directed against immigrants, who believe most immigrants come to Germany to enjoy its rich economy.