OXFORD, England — Citing security concerns, Alice Weidel, the leader of Germany’s far-right political party, has canceled an appearance at the University of Oxford.

Ms. Weidel, the leader of the Alternative for Germany party, had been scheduled to give a short speech on Wednesday before the Oxford Union, a famed debating society, and to answer questions from audience members.

Facing widespread protest, Stephen Horvath, the president of the Oxford Union, had steadfastly refused to cancel the event, citing the importance of free speech and the educational value of engaging with prominent politicians across Europe, regardless of their ideology.

On Friday, however, Mr. Horvath said in a statement that Ms. Weidel had decided to withdraw.

“Alice Weidel has canceled her planned trip to the U.K. next week due to concerns with the security arrangements for aspects of her travels and engagements,” the statement read.