Germany's Far-Right Gains: A Critical Election

As Germans head to the polls on February 23, the country faces a critical election with far-right gains expected. The Alternative for Germany (AfD) party, known for its anti-immigration stance and Euroscepticism, is poised to make significant gains, potentially reshaping Germany's domestic and foreign policy.

The AfD's rise can be attributed to several factors, including economic stagnation, migration concerns, and anti-establishment sentiment. Germany's economy has been stagnant for several years, with the German economy shrinking for the past two years and not managing real growth in much longer. This economic stagnation has led to widespread discontent and a lack of enthusiasm for any of the candidates. The AfD has capitalized on this economic insecurity, particularly in the eastern region of Germany, where economic concerns have played a significant part in its popularity.

Migration has moved to the forefront of the campaign in the past month following deadly attacks committed by immigrants. The AfD has vowed to bar people from entering the country without proper papers and to step up deportations if elected. The party has also called for many more migrants to be turned back at Germany's borders. The AfD's anti-immigration stance has resonated with voters, particularly in the eastern region, where economic concerns and a sense of being left behind have fueled support for the party.
The AfD has also positioned itself as an anti-establishment party, capitalizing on the discontent and frustration with the mainstream political parties. The party has questioned the accuracy of positive economic news and claimed that mainstream parties, statistics agencies, and other state-controlled bodies are misleading voters. This anti-establishment sentiment has contributed to the AfD's rise in popularity, particularly among voters who feel disenfranchised and ignored by the political establishment.
If the AfD gains significant support in the election, it could have significant implications for Germany's domestic and foreign policy. The party's anti-immigration stance could pressure the next government to adopt stricter immigration policies, potentially leading to a more restrictive approach to immigration and integration. This could have implications for Germany's economy, as immigration has been a significant driver of growth, particularly in the face of an aging population.
The AfD's Euroscepticism could also embolden Eurosceptic sentiments within Germany and potentially weaken support for European integration. This could have implications for Germany's role in the EU, as well as the broader project of European integration.
In regards to relations with Russia and the United States, the AfD has taken a more conciliatory stance towards Russia, questioning the sanctions imposed on Russia following its annexation of Crimea and the conflict in Ukraine. A strong showing by the AfD could potentially influence Germany's foreign policy towards Russia, potentially leading to a more pragmatic approach that prioritizes economic interests over human rights and democratic values. In regards to the United States, the AfD has been critical of the Trump administration's confrontational foreign and trade policy. A strong showing by the AfD could potentially influence Germany's foreign policy towards the United States, potentially leading to a more assertive stance that prioritizes German interests over those of the United States.
In conclusion, the upcoming election in Germany is critical, with far-right gains expected. The AfD's rise can be attributed to economic stagnation, migration concerns, and anti-establishment sentiment. If the AfD gains significant support, it could have significant implications for Germany's domestic and foreign policy, particularly in regards to immigration, European integration, and relations with Russia and the United States. However, it is important to note that the AfD is unlikely to form a government on its own, and its influence will depend on the composition of the next coalition government.