The Monocle Daily
Germany swings to the right and three years of war in Ukraine
Feb 24, 2025
Nina dos Santos, an international broadcast correspondent with a keen eye on global politics, joins James Rogers, an expert in journalism, and Michael Krelas, a Dutch journalist and author delving into Stalin-era Russian composers. They discuss Germany's alarming political swing to the far-right, the implications of EU sanctions on Russia as the Ukraine war hits three years, and the surge of Irish citizenship applications post-Brexit. The conversation also touches on a controversial app for hiring bodyguards, showcasing modern security dilemmas.
41:32
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Quick takeaways
- Germany's political landscape is shifting as the CDU gains power and the AfD rises, reflecting voter discontent with mainstream parties.
- As the war in Ukraine continues, the EU's sanctions on Russia face challenges due to reliance on Russian energy and military support effectiveness.
Deep dives
Germany's Political Landscape Shifts
Germany's recent elections have resulted in significant changes within its political landscape, demonstrating an increase in support for the far-right Alternative for Deutschland (AFD), which garnered over 20% of the vote. The Christian Democratic Union (CDU), a historically stable party, is expected to assume power under Friedrich Merz, who emphasized the need for European unity in the face of national challenges. The voting is viewed as a reaction against the mainstream parties, particularly the Social Democrats, whose support has drastically declined. Surprisingly, the left-wing party Die Linke received notable support, especially among first-time voters, indicating a shift in political dynamics and voter priorities.
