The upcoming state elections in three eastern German states, Thuringia, Saxony, and Brandenburg, are causing concern as the far-right AfD is leading in the polls. In Thuringia, the AfD is ahead with 30%, far ahead of the CDU at 21%. The AfD is seen as a ‘threat’ due to its right-wing extremist views and lack of recognition of Nazi history. There are fears that the success of the radical right in Germany could have a negative impact on institutions like the Buchenwald Memorial and promote the trivialization of the Holocaust.
Despite warnings from experts and institutions like the Buchenwald Memorial, many supporters of the AfD seem undeterred by the party’s controversial views. A recent rally in Neustadt an der Orla highlighted the party’s focus on promoting patriotism and normalizing Germany’s history. Thuringian AfD leader Björn Höcke has faced criticism for his use of Nazi slogans in the past, but his supporters believe the party can bring change to the country.
The issue of migration and foreign policy is also a key topic in the upcoming elections. Far-right parties like the AfD are demanding changes to Germany’s immigration policies, while a new far-left party, the Sahra Wagenknecht Alliance, is calling for negotiations with Russia and an end to weapons deliveries to Ukraine. The balance of power in these states could have significant implications for national politics and foreign policy decisions.
The recent knife attack in Solingen involving a suspected extremist from Syria has sparked debate about immigration policies in Germany. The CDU has called for tighter measures to curb irregular migration, potentially opening the door to alliances with other parties to keep the AfD out of power. The outcome of the elections in these eastern states will likely shape national politics and influence future decisions on immigration and foreign policy.
While the AfD is expected to perform well in the upcoming elections, it is unlikely to secure a majority to govern. The current political landscape in Germany requires parties to form coalitions, making it challenging for any single party to exert significant influence. The CDU has ruled out forming a coalition with the AfD, but analysts believe that alliances may be necessary to prevent the far-right party from gaining power.
Chancellor Scholz’s center-left coalition government will be closely watching the outcome of the eastern elections to gauge the political climate in Germany. The success of the AfD in these states could signal a shift in political dynamics and potentially impact national policies. As Germany prepares for the future, the results of the upcoming elections will be critical in shaping the country’s political trajectory.
