Economist Podcasts

Extremes come true: Germany’s far-right triumph

19 snips
Sep 2, 2024
Tom Nuttall, Chief Germany correspondent for The Economist, offers insights into the alarming rise of the far-right AfD party in Germany, particularly in Saxony and Thuringia. He discusses the political implications of this shift and its potential to reshape the landscape. John McDermott, Chief Africa correspondent, examines the transformative role of motorcycle taxis in African cities, enhancing mobility and economic opportunities while highlighting safety concerns. Their diverse perspectives intertwine politics and culture, painting a vivid picture of global challenges.
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INSIGHT

Germany's Far-Right Triumph

  • The Alternative for Germany (AfD), an extremist group, has won a state election and gained significant share in another.
  • This reflects a broader trend of increasing support for extremist parties in Germany, particularly in the East.
INSIGHT

AfD's Platform

  • The AfD's success is attributed to its focus on cultural matters like migration and COVID-19 policies.
  • It also exploits fears about the war in Ukraine, echoing Kremlin propaganda.
INSIGHT

The Rise of the Left

  • The rising left-wing Sarah Wagenknecht alliance (BSW) shares some right-wing positions, like skepticism towards immigration and support for Russia.
  • This illustrates the horseshoe theory, where the far-left and far-right converge on certain issues.
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