The Briefing Room
Is Germany in trouble?
Sep 12, 2024
Join Guy Chazan, the Financial Times' Berlin bureau chief, Dr. Constanze Stelzenmuller from the Brookings Institution, and Marcel Fratzscher, president of DIW Berlin, alongside economist Thiemo Fetzer, as they dive into the turbulent landscape of contemporary German politics. They tackle the alarming rise of the far-right AfD party, dissect the challenges of coalition governance, and explore Germany's economic stagnation amid rising energy costs. Insightful discussions on voter motivations and the implications for future elections add depth to this critical analysis.
28:38
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Quick takeaways
- The rise of the far-right AfD party in Germany reflects a complex interplay of identity politics, economic decline, and community dislocation.
- Germany's economic struggles, stemming from stagnation, high energy costs, and dependency on exports, threaten its competitiveness and political stability.
Deep dives
The Rise of the Far-Right AFD Party
The far-right AFD party, known as Alternativa für Deutschland, has gained significant traction in recent regional elections, particularly in East Germany. Unlike other far-right groups in Europe that have moderated their positions, the AFD has grown increasingly radical, adopting ethnonationalist and xenophobic stances, especially towards immigration. The party's popularity is notable even in regions with low foreign populations, as they capitalize on local economic decline and a sense of lost control among voters. This shift reflects broader societal trends, where a combination of identity politics, economic disparity, and a perceived erosion of community has propelled the AFD's agenda into mainstream political discussion.
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