Germany’s Far-Right Sees Potential Breakthrough
Germany’s far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party is poised for what could be its strongest showing yet in upcoming elections, raising concerns about the shifting political landscape in the country. The party, which first entered Germany’s national parliament eight years ago, has successfully tapped into a growing sense of discontent among voters, extending beyond its traditional focus on immigration.
While a victory for AfD co-leader Alice Weidel is considered unrealistic, with other parties ruling out any cooperation, the party’s increasing influence is undeniable. Its presence has already begun to shape the national debate, particularly regarding migration policy. The AfD’s rise reflects a broader trend of increasing support for right-wing and populist parties across Europe, fueled by frustrations with the political establishment, globalization, and concerns about national identity.
The party’s slogan, “Make Germany great again,” echoes sentiments seen in other nationalist movements globally. Curbing migration remains a central tenet of the AfD’s platform, but it has broadened its appeal by capitalizing on anxieties surrounding Germany’s transition away from fossil fuels, restrictions implemented during the COVID-19 pandemic, and the country’s support for Ukraine following Russia’s invasion.
The AfD’s growing prominence has attracted attention from international figures, including enthusiastic support from Elon Musk, as well as interest from U.S. Vice President JD Vance and Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán. This international recognition underscores the party’s expanding influence beyond Germany’s borders.
In 2017, the AfD entered the federal parliament with 12.6% of the vote, becoming Germany’s biggest opposition party, according to the BBC. This marked a significant turning point in German politics, signaling a growing acceptance of far-right ideologies within the mainstream.
The party’s success is not isolated. Across Europe, nationalist movements are gaining traction. In Italy, Matteo Salvini, leader of the League, has been a key figure in the European nationalist scene, advocating for anti-immigration policies and a Eurosceptic agenda. The League’s popularity surged following the financial crisis and a large influx of migrants in 2016.
The AfD’s ability to harness discontent with a range of issues, not solely immigration, has been crucial to its growth. This strategic shift has allowed the party to appeal to a wider segment of the electorate, capitalizing on anxieties about economic changes, social policies, and international relations.
The potential for historic gains by the AfD in the current election cycle raises questions about the future of German politics and the broader implications for European stability. While mainstream parties have pledged not to cooperate with the AfD, its growing influence suggests that its ideas will continue to shape the political discourse in Germany and beyond.
The rise of the AfD is part of a larger pattern of right-wing nationalism across Europe, a phenomenon rooted in a combination of economic anxieties, cultural concerns, and dissatisfaction with traditional political institutions. The party’s success, and that of similar movements elsewhere, highlights the challenges facing European democracies in addressing these complex issues.
