KQED's Forum cover image

KQED's Forum

Will Germany Turn to the Far Right?

Feb 20, 2025
Guests Jen Kirby, an independent national security reporter, and Sophia Besch, a senior fellow at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, dive into Germany's political landscape. They discuss the impending parliamentary elections and the rise of the far-right Alternative for Deutschland (AfD) party, examining its anti-immigrant stance and neo-Nazi ties. The conversation highlights the implications for both European and U.S. politics, alongside the socio-economic factors driving these developments and their potential impact on democratic values.
57:46

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Germany's economic discontent and rising inflation have led to significant political strain, contributing to the far-right AFD's surge in popularity.
  • External influences, including statements from U.S. politicians and figures like Elon Musk, may embolden the far-right AFD, complicating U.S.-European relationships.

Deep dives

Economic Discontent and Political Strain in Germany

Germany is experiencing significant political strain due to economic discontent among the populace, exacerbated by rising inflation and cost of living. The current three-party coalition government, comprising the Social Democrats, Greens, and the FDP, has faced increased criticism for its fiscal policies which many citizens perceive as ineffective. This dissatisfaction has triggered a snap election, originally scheduled for 2025, as mounting tensions within the coalition rendered it untenable. The political landscape is precarious, and the outcome of the upcoming elections could shift the power dynamics significantly.

Get the Snipd
podcast app

Unlock the knowledge in podcasts with the podcast player of the future.
App store bannerPlay store banner

AI-powered
podcast player

Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features

Discover
highlights

Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode

Save any
moment

Hear something you like? Tap your headphones to save it with AI-generated key takeaways

Share
& Export

Send highlights to Twitter, WhatsApp or export them to Notion, Readwise & more

AI-powered
podcast player

Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features

Discover
highlights

Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode