The New Statesman | UK politics and culture Did JD Vance boost Germany's far right?
Feb 19, 2025
This discussion features Hans Kudnani, a fellow at the Open Society Foundation and author focused on German politics, and Annette Dittert, a senior correspondent at ARD with expertise in German political dynamics. They delve into the growing influence of the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD), examining its radical shift and electoral success. The conversation scrutinizes the traditional firewall against far-right collaboration and the implications of recent comments by J.D. Vance, exploring the future of German politics and transatlantic relations.
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AfD's Radicalization
- The AfD, originally a party of liberal economics professors, has become increasingly radical over time.
- This contrasts with other far-right European parties that have moderated their stances.
AfD's East German Base
- The AfD's strong base in East Germany might incentivize its radicalization.
- Their success challenges previous assumptions about Germany's immunity to the far right.
Radical vs. Extreme Right
- Germany distinguishes between the "radical right," which accepts democratic rules, and the "extreme right," which challenges them.
- This distinction has legal implications, as "extreme right" parties can be monitored and potentially banned.
