The Conversation Weekly Where support for Germany’s far-right AFD is growing and why
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Feb 6, 2025 Laura Hood, a Senior politics editor focused on European politics, is joined by Rolf Frankenberger, an expert on right-wing extremism from the University of Tübingen. They delve into the rising support for Germany's far-right AFD party, emphasizing its shift from Euroscepticism to nationalism anchored in anti-immigration rhetoric. The discussion highlights the historical roots of Völkisch nationalism, the growing urban-rural divide in political allegiance, and how societal shifts and figures like Elon Musk are influencing this alarming trend.
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AFD's Shift to Nationalism
- The AFD, initially a Eurosceptic party focused on economic policy, attracted right-wing members.
- This influx led to a shift towards a nationalist agenda and a change in leadership over time.
Factors Driving AFD Radicalization
- Several events influenced the AFD's radicalization, including the 2008 economic crisis, the Syrian civil war, and the war in Ukraine.
- The COVID-19 pandemic also played a role, with the AFD initially supporting lockdowns then quickly opposing them.
AFD's Cultural Narrative
- While migration policies attract some voters, the AFD's narrative centers on the destruction of German culture.
- This narrative targets language use, gender equality, the LGBTQI+ community, and Islam, appealing to those feeling a loss of traditional values.