UnHerd with Freddie Sayers Katja Hoyer & Thomas Fazi: Political earthquake in East Germany
Sep 2, 2024
Katja Hoyer, an expert on East Germany, and Thomas Fazi, a columnist focusing on Sarah Wagenknecht, dive into the recent political upheaval in East Germany. They discuss the surprising electoral rise of the AfD and Wagenknecht's new party, signaling a significant shift in political alliances. The conversation highlights the discontent with traditional parties and the urgent need for centrist strategies to re-engage voters. They also advocate for a redefined sense of security, emphasizing economic stability alongside social issues.
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AfD's Impact
- The AfD's success makes them a major political player in Germany, creating a difficult situation for other parties.
- Coalitions against the AfD could range from conservative to far-left parties, making for unstable alliances.
Youth Appeal
- The AfD's message resonates with young people in East Germany, who face demographic decline, immigration, and limited job opportunities.
- Surprisingly, the AfD performed even better among 18 to 24 year olds than among older generations.
Anti-Woke Sentiment
- East Germans are frustrated with being told how to think and speak, similar to the former East German regime.
- This "anti-woke" sentiment stems from the perceived detachment of mainstream language from everyday speech.
