As Germany gears up for its latest national election, the far-right party Alternative for Germany (AfD) is capturing attention with its increasing influence. For the first time, AfD is fielding a candidate for chancellor, signaling its growing ambition despite the improbability of immediately gaining power. The party's impact is felt profoundly in Germany's political discussions, particularly concerning migration—a theme central to AfD since its parliamentary entrance eight years ago.
Originally founded in 2013, AfD positioned itself against eurozone bailouts amid the financial crisis, initially attracting intellectuals critical of mainstream policies. However, the influx of migrants during Angela Merkel's chancellorship transformed AfD’s focus, boosting its prominence in the 2017 elections by securing 12.6% of votes.
Throughout the years, the party has skillfully leveraged public dissatisfaction on various fronts, from Germany's energy transition to its handling of the COVID-19 pandemic and foreign policies related to the Ukraine conflict. Despite a slight dip in parliamentary representation in 2021, AfD quickly regained acceptance as Olaf Scholz's administration faced internal strife.
AfD's rhetoric, often termed radical, remains controversial, especially following reports of internal discussions on deportation policies. However, scandals haven't halted AfD’s progress, with notable achievements like Björn Höcke's historic victory in a state election, marking the first far-right win post-WWII.
The party's agenda, led by Alice Weidel, includes controversial positions such as opposing sanctions on Russia and advocating for Germany's monetary independence. AfD’s influence is particularly palpable in the east, where economic struggles fuel its support base. It positions itself as a counter-establishment entity, resonating with disillusioned voters and harnessing online platforms to amplify its messages effectively.
AfD’s rise mirrors similar trends seen across Europe, aligning loosely with parties like Austria's Freedom Party, though its unpopular stance on certain historical issues remains contentious among its European counterparts. Notably, its narrative echoes sentiments shared by global figures like Elon Musk, who has vocally supported AfD's mission to revitalize Germany politically.
Despite other parties ruling out collaborations with AfD, its momentum challenges Germany’s traditional political landscape, compelling observers and politicians alike to assess the broader implications of its ascent. As this election unfolds, AfD's trajectory remains a critical point of observation in understanding Europe's evolving political dynamics.
