341: ‘Germans are furious’ | Katja Hoyer on the fall of the elites and the rise of the AfD
Feb 19, 2025
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Katja Hoyer, a historian and journalist specializing in German history, dives into the rising political tides in Germany. She discusses the significant decline of the Social Democrats amidst mounting support for the populist AfD, fueled by economic struggles and immigration issues. Hoyer highlights the growing class divide and the tension between political elites and citizens, particularly regarding free speech. She also evaluates the shifting landscape of political movements and the frustrations of voters seeking genuine change in a stagnant system.
The significant decline of Germany's Social Democratic Party is fueled by widespread disillusionment with traditional political systems amidst economic and migration challenges.
The rise of the Alternative for Germany highlights a growing public frustration with immigration management and governmental failures, reflecting a deep desire for authentic political change.
Deep dives
Decline of the Social Democratic Party
The Social Democratic Party (SPD) is facing significant historical losses, reflecting a broader trend across various countries where citizens are increasingly gravitating towards right-wing populist parties. Several factors contributed to this decline, including the unpopularity of Olaf Scholz's administration, which attempted to build on a system that was already faltering. The challenges stemming from crises such as the COVID pandemic and the war in Ukraine have only exacerbated the situation, leading to a rise in inflation and public dissatisfaction. Consequently, the SPD's current polling numbers are reminiscent of figures not seen since the 19th century, indicating a deep-rooted unease among the electorate regarding traditional political options.
The Rise of the AFD and Underlying Discontent
The Alternative for Germany (AFD) has seen its support grow substantially, mirroring a sense of disaffection among the populace rather than a mere reaction to political events. Efforts to contain or ban the party have been unsuccessful, as they fail to address the core reasons behind citizens' frustrations, such as immigration management and the government's perceived failures in this area. Many Germans feel a lack of control over immigration and are dissatisfied with the government's openness regarding the challenges posed by incoming asylum seekers. The AFD channels this widespread discontent, allowing voters to express their grievances as traditional parties struggle to respond to these pressing concerns.
Voters’ Desire for Authentic Change
A common sentiment among voters is a desire for real political change, yet many are disillusioned by the current electoral dynamics, where traditional choices seem to overlap significantly. Concerns are growing that a simple change in leadership, such as Friedrich Merz potentially becoming Chancellor, may result in little substantive difference, as coalitions could still incorporate existing parties and their ideologies. This situation breeds skepticism regarding the electoral process, with many citizens feeling their votes might not yield meaningful alternatives to the status quo. Manifesting frustration through protest votes, particularly for the AFD, reflects a longing for genuine change, as voters grapple with the complexity of expressing their dissatisfaction effectively.
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Germany’s ruling Social Democrats (SPD) are facing losses the party has not seen since the 19th century in this weekend’s federal elections, while the populist Alternative for Germany (AfD) is set to double its vote share. Here, historian and journalist Katja Hoyer explains how a failing economy, out-of-control migration and intrusive Net Zero policies have led to mass disaffection with the mainstream parties. She also discusses the growing class divide, the rise and fall of ‘left-conservatism’, and why JD Vance’s warnings about free speech resonated with East Germans.
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