The spiked podcast 301: Germany’s populist earthquake
Sep 6, 2024
Jake Wallis Simons, a journalist based in Israel, delves into the complexities of Labour's perceived appeasement of Hamas. He discusses the rising populism in Germany, particularly the AfD's electoral successes and the challenge it poses to traditional parties. The conversation also touches on the implications of the UK’s arms export policies towards Israel, alongside the emotional impact on the British Jewish community. Finally, Wallis critiques media narratives surrounding the Gaza conflict, prompting a broader examination of public perception and policy.
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Why East Germany Shifted Politically
- Eastern German voters feel neglected by mainstream parties and lack long-standing party loyalty.
- That neglect allowed the AfD and a new left-populist BSW to capture protest votes on migration, crime and green policy.
Populism Beyond The Far Right
- Voters backed populist options because mainstream parties refused to address migration, crime and cultural grievances.
- The emergence of BSW shows populism isn't purely right-wing and splits the protest vote.
Wagenknecht's Cross‑Sectarian Appeal
- Sara Wagenknecht's BSW mixes traditional left economics with scepticism of greenism and migration policy.
- That mix attracts voters who dislike establishment culture-war positions without endorsing hard-right views.