Extremists have solidified their position in German politics
The far-right party AFD became the main power in the eastern German state of Thuringia by securing over 32% of the votes in the state election and came in a close second in the state of Saxony.
Surprisingly, the far-left movement also managed to gain more than 10% of the votes, despite having recently formed their party and allied movement, showcasing its strength. One of the most significant developments in German politics in the last decade is the emergence of anti-immigration rhetoric on both sides of German politics.
This rhetoric has bolstered both neo-Nazi right-wingers and created a unique movement among leftists, which has quietly entrenched itself in parts of the liberal and left-leaning German society, who are anxious and angry about the increasing acceptance of immigrants and the influx of refugees, primarily due to economic reasons. Previously, we reported on the dangers of extremist behaviors by immigrants, particularly Muslims, and various terrorist attacks carried out by them, and now the results of those actions can be seen in this election.
The destructive trend of violent actions by immigrants and refugees continues, and it’s natural that this segment of German society must find ways to curb the violence of its members. If anger and frustration over xenophobia and racism lead to violence, it becomes a bonus and gift for racists.
Just a few days ago, an Afghan refugee attacked a racist AFD member at an anti-Islam rally of this party, resulting in the death of a German police officer. There are various issues and grounds for dissatisfaction with the German government and moderate parties.
Economic problems, high inflation in previous years, which has now just reached 2%, and Germany’s stagnant economy have left a bitter taste for the people.
The progressive European and German policies of maximum support and serious pursuit of policies aimed at combating climate change, which alter people’s lifestyles and have economic consequences, are unbearable for many people, and specifically, German right-wingers have attracted a high number of votes from these dissatisfied individuals.
This phenomenon was also significantly influential in the recent Dutch elections, and right-wing parties greatly benefited from it. Beyond all this, the ongoing crisis of cultural, social, and economic conflicts arising from ethnic and racial contradictions continues to dominate German politics.
The widespread gatherings supporting refugees and immigrants and opposing racism, which are usually held in Germany, have not affected the rise and empowerment of right-wingers in eastern Germany. In these regions, where there are fewer immigrants, the majority of the eastern German society is both protesting the imbalance in their situation compared to the west and harbors hatred towards others.
The influence of this part of Germany’s empathy with Russians and the overt and covert propaganda activities of Russians to radicalize the people in these areas have also contributed to helping extremists. The AFD party has had no qualms about openly sympathizing with Russians.