The Conversation Weekly
Where support for Germany’s far-right AFD is growing and why
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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Quick takeaways
- The AFD's rise to prominence in Germany highlights a disturbing trend toward nationalism and anti-immigration sentiments, fueled by historical social divides.
- Expectations surrounding coalition building may change as mainstream parties face pressure to engage with the far-right AFD, potentially normalizing extremist viewpoints in politics.
Deep dives
The Upcoming Snap Election and Its Implications
Germany is poised for a snap election on February 23rd following the collapse of Olaf Scholz's coalition government due to disagreements over economic policies and energy plans. This election is significant as the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) is projected to achieve its highest vote share in history, polling around 20%. The political landscape is of particular concern given Germany's historical context, creating apprehension about the implications of a strong far-right presence in parliament. Observers note that the AFD's success in this election could challenge established norms about coalition building in German politics.
