The far-right is on the rise in Germany. Here's why

In recent years, Germany has witnessed a concerning rise in far-right sentiment. Given the country’s past under Nazis, this has sparked national and international alarm. This resurgence is mainly embodied by the Alternative for Germany (AfD), which has increasingly embraced extreme right-wing ideologies and revisionist narratives of Germany’s past.

We take a look at why the far right in rising in Germany, and how the public and political response has been.

The rise of AfD

The AfD, initially emerging as a Eurosceptic and anti-immigration voice, has shifted dramatically toward promoting nationalist and anti-Semitic rhetoric. This has found resonance, especially in the former East German states such as Saxony, Thuringia, and Brandenburg. These are regions that have experienced economic stagnation and high unemployment rates since unification of East and West Germany. These areas have become strongholds for the AfD.

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Economic and social catalysts

Several factors have fueled the rise of the AfD. High immigration rates following the refugee crises of the mid-2010s have been a significant driver, with the party exploiting public fears about the impact of immigration on German cultural and economic stability. This narrative has gained traction amidst broader societal uncertainties, exacerbated by financial challenges, the COVID-19 pandemic, and geopolitical tensions such as the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, according to a report by The Independent.

The recent influx of over 300,000 asylum seekers from Syria, Afghanistan, and Turkey, coupled with the arrival of Ukrainian refugees, has intensified debates on immigration and integration, providing fertile ground for far-right rhetoric. The tension is further amplified by economic frustrations and the perceived ineffectiveness of the current government under Chancellor Olaf Scholz, whose administration has been criticised for handling various crises, including the energy transition and economic reform.

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Political and public response

In response to the growing influence of far-right ideologies, German authorities, led by Interior Minister Nancy Faeser, have implemented measures to curb extremist groups’ operational capabilities. These measures include stricter controls on extremists’ weapon ownership and enhanced monitoring of their financial activities.

Simultaneously, there has been significant public opposition to the far-right’s agenda. Massive protests have erupted across Germany, with millions participating in demonstrations advocating for democracy and condemning hate. These protests reflect widespread public dissent and have pressured the government to adopt more decisive actions against far-right extremism.

The challenge of addressing far-right extremism

Addressing the rise of the AfD presents a complex challenge. The party’s popularity, particularly among younger voters in economically struggling regions, underscores a profound discontent with the current political and economic systems. Moreover, the party’s radical factions, such as the Thuringia branch led by Bjoern Hoecke, who has openly espoused revisionist views of Germany’s Nazi past, pose a significant threat to democratic values.

Efforts to ban the AfD have sparked controversy, reflecting the delicate balance between protecting democratic principles and suppressing extremist views. Given the AfD’s significant electoral support, such a ban would have substantial legal and political implications.

The narrative of nationalism and xenophobia being propagated by the AfD is not just a political challenge but a moral test for Germany. As the country moves forward, it must reconcile its economic and social policies with the imperative to uphold democratic values and human rights, ensuring that all citizens, regardless of their background, feel included and valued in German society. The upcoming elections and the European Parliament’s decisions will be pivotal in determining the trajectory of far-right movements and their influence on policy and society.

Societal integration and education efforts

To counteract the growing influence of the far-right, Germany has increased its efforts in civic education, focusing on the importance of democratic values and the dangers of extremism. Educational programs that promote tolerance and diversity are being expanded, especially in areas with high levels of AfD support. These initiatives are critical in shaping young minds and countering the narratives of hate and division.

Moreover, community integration projects aim to bring together people of various backgrounds to foster a sense of unity and mutual respect. Such programs are vital in areas receiving high numbers of immigrants, where tensions may be more pronounced. By improving community cohesion, Germany hopes to undermine the divisive tactics employed by far-right groups.

International cooperation and monitoring

On the international stage, Germany is seeking greater cooperation with European neighbours to tackle the rise of far-right extremism across the continent, including sharing intelligence on far-right groups, coordinating law enforcement efforts, and harmonising policies on hate speech and online radicalisation.

Furthermore, Germany is actively participating in global forums to address the root causes of extremism, such as economic disparity and political disenfranchisement. By cooperating with other nations, Germany aims to create a more robust international framework for combating far-right ideologies and ensuring a safer, more inclusive world.

Germany’s fight against far-right extremism involves governmental action, societal engagement, education, community building, and international collaboration. As this battle continues, the stakes remain high, with the future of German democracy and the integrity of its historical lessons hanging in the balance.

With inputs from agencies