In the recent regional elections, the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) is projected to make significant gains in the eastern states of Saxony and Thuringia, potentially marking the first time since the Nazi era that a far-right party wins the most seats in a German state election. This development has caused concern across Germany, with thousands protesting against the AfD and its ideologies. The elections could lead to a shift in the political landscape, challenging the traditional coalition agreements and testing the so-called firewall policy that prevents far-right participation in government coalitions.
- Voting is underway in regional elections that could see a far-right party win the most seats in post-war German history.
- The Alternative for Germany (AfD) is classified as right-wing extremist by Germany’s intelligence agency but is projected to make big gains in Saxony and Thuringia.
- Mainstream conservatives and a new populist party might also show a strong performance in the elections.
- There has been a notable rise in protests against the AfD, with activists calling the far right a threat to democracy.
- The current government coalition in Thuringia, consisting of the Left Party, Social Democrats, and Greens, is expected to lose power.
- There is a debate within conservative circles about adopting a more pragmatic approach to the AfD as it grows in strength.
- Factors behind the shift towards the far right include demographic changes, unpopular decisions made by the government in Berlin, and criticism of Russia’s aggression in Ukraine.
- A new alliance, the BSW, led by a charismatic figure, is campaigning on issues of war and peace, potentially becoming kingmakers in the election.
- The success of the AfD in Saxony and Thuringia may not directly indicate a shift in national politics but poses challenges for the central government coalition.
- The elections test the “firewall” policy, which has traditionally prevented far-right participation in government coalitions.
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