In the weekend’s regional elections in Germany, the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party has made significant gains, reflecting a broader shift in the political landscape of Europe. The AfD secured a decisive victory in Thuringia, winning the most votes, while also performing strongly in Saxony and Brandenburg. This marks a notable shift to the right in German politics, with the AfD becoming a formidable force in regions of what was once East Germany.
Significant Shift in German Politics
The AfD's rise has been propelled by a mix of populist rhetoric, anti-immigration policies, and a strong critique of the European Union. In Thuringia, the AfD's candidate, Robert Sesselmann, won with a significant margin, indicating a growing discontent among voters with the traditional political parties. This victory is particularly significant because it is the first time that a far-right party has won a local election in Germany since the end of World War II.
The results in Saxony and Brandenburg were similarly concerning for Germany’s traditional political establishment. In Saxony, the AfD secured over 32% of the vote, coming in as the largest party, while in Brandenburg, the party also performed well, finishing in second place with over 27% of the vote. These results signal a deepening divide between East and West Germany, with the former increasingly leaning towards right-wing populism.
European Context: A Shift to the Right
The AfD's success is part of a broader trend in Europe, where far-right parties have been gaining ground. In Italy, for example, Giorgia Meloni's Brothers of Italy party won the general elections in 2022, marking the first time a far-right party has led the country since World War II. Like the AfD, Meloni's party has capitalized on anti-immigration sentiments, euroscepticism, and a critique of the political establishment.
The rise of these parties has been fueled by a combination of economic uncertainty, cultural anxieties, and a backlash against globalization. Many voters feel left behind by the rapid changes brought about by globalization and are turning to parties that promise to protect their interests and preserve their cultural identity.
Comparing Germany and Italy
While the AfD's success in Germany is comparable to Meloni's victory in Italy, there are significant differences between the two. Meloni's Brothers of Italy has managed to build a broad coalition that includes both far-right and more moderate right-wing elements, whereas the AfD remains more isolated, with other German parties refusing to cooperate with it.
Moreover, Meloni's government has so far managed to maintain a semblance of stability, balancing its nationalist rhetoric with actual governance. The AfD, on the other hand, has been more radical in its approach, often courting controversy with its inflammatory statements and policies.
New Reality for Europe?
The victories of far-right parties in Germany and Italy underscore a new reality in European politics: the traditional parties can no longer take their dominance for granted. The success of the AfD and Brothers of Italy reflects a growing disenchantment with the political status quo and a desire for change, even if that change comes in the form of more extreme political options.
As Europe grapples with a range of challenges—from economic inequality to migration and climate change—the appeal of far-right parties may continue to grow. For Germany, a country still reckoning with its history, the rise of the AfD poses a unique challenge, forcing a national conversation about identity, democracy, and the future of the country. For Europe, the trend suggests a broader political realignment that could reshape the continent's political landscape for years to come.
