The Christian Social Union of Bavaria is considered to be more [[conservative]] than its sister party, the [[Christian Democratic Union]]. However it is also more left than the CDU on social welfare issues.<ref>Chase, Jefferson (June 13, 2017). [https://www.dw.com/en/things-to-know-about-bavarias-christian-social-union/a-39192183 Things to know about Bavaria's Christian Social Union]. ''Deutsche Welle''. Retrieved August 25, 2018.</ref>
The CSU was highly critical on [[Angela Merkel]]'s refugee policies during the [[European migrant crisis]]. The party leader Horst Seehofer said in an interview that Germany had been "shaped by Christianity", and that the country should not give up its own traditions. Furthermore, he stated that [[Islam]] "does not belong in Germany".<ref>Huggler, Justin (March 16, 2018). [https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/2018/03/16/german-interior-minister-declares-islam-does-not-belong-country/ German interior minister declares 'Islam does not belong' in the country]. ''The Telegraph''. Retrieved March 17, 2018.</ref> However, some [[conservative]] critics have described the party's leader, [[Horst Seehofer]] as "a centre-right figure fundamentally unopposed to mass migration."<ref>Lane, Oliver JJ (July 2, 2018). [https://www.breitbart.com/london/2018/07/02/merkel-germany-coalition-limps-on-as-immigration-control-compromise-struck/ Merkel Germany Coalition Limps on as Immigration Control Compromise Struck]. ''Breitbart News''. Retrieved July 2, 2018.</ref>
In April 2018 the CSU ordered Christian Crosses to be Displayed on All Entrances to Government Buildings in Bavaria.<ref>https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5ixVywnUbrY</ref>