** The uprising of the extreme right in Germany: a phenomenon with multifactorial roots **
At the heart of Europe, Germany is going through an unprecedented political storm, marked by a dazzling rise of the extreme right. The recent anticipated legislative elections, organized outside the usual calendar, have highlighted the growing difficulties of the Social Democratic Party (SPD) of Olaf Scholz, whose support erodes in the face of a reinforced conservative coalition and, made unprecedented , faced with an alternative for Germany (AFD) which is tutoring the summits of voting intentions. This political phenomenon, far from being isolated, echoes a larger movement within Europe and is part of a context of economic crisis and increasing geopolitical tensions.
** Economic crisis: the fertile breeding ground for radicalization **
The economic crisis that shares not only Germany but also the whole of Europe, finds its origins in a complex situation, exacerbated by the repercussions of the COVID-19 pandemic, the outbreak of energy prices following The war in Ukraine, as well as disturbed supply chains. This situation has caused economic precariousness that the German citizen feels on a daily basis. The growing inequalities and the stagnation of wages fuel a feeling of abandonment within part of the population, making populist discourse of far -right parties more attractive.
Comparedly, other European countries, such as France with the National Rally, or Italy with the League, illustrate this same movement of disaffection towards traditional parties. Studies show that feelings of economic insecurity are a soil conducive to feeding of extreme ideologies. A study by the Social Economy Research Institute revealed that 68 % of people declaring themselves dissatisfied with their economic situation are more likely to join radical ideas. Germany is no exception to this rule.
** The shadow of terrorism and foreign interference **
In parallel, Germany was shaken by a series of attacks that have highlighted the faults of its internal safety. The emergence of violent extremist movements, whether right or Islamists, has strengthened fear among the population. The Hanau attacks in 2020 and that of Würzburg in 2021 rekindled the fears linked to immigration and national identity, the subjects that AFD exploits with skill.
Likewise, foreign interference, especially through disinformation campaigns on social networks, exacerbates the fears of citizens and nourishes distrust of institutions. Studies reveal that the spread of false information on popular platforms has the effect of increasing support for parties considered to be anti-system. AFD, with its virulent criticism of immigration and the European Union, is positioned as a bulwark against these feeling.
** A fragmented Europe: towards a new political configuration? **
The German case cannot be dissociated from a broader phenomenon within the European Union, where the rise in populist and nationalist parties has grown. The recent election in Italy, marked by the coming to power of Giorgia Meloni, and growing threats to the Netherlands against traditional political establishment, testify to a general discomfort that unites these countries. This phenomenon raises crucial questions about the future of the EU. Europe, fragile in the face of common challenges – migration, energy crisis, climate change – seems more and more divided.
To assess the political future of Germany, it will be essential to observe the political responses which will be provided by the SPD and its allies. A refocusing on economic, social issues and a proactive approach to immigration will be essential to restore the confidence of citizens in democratic institutions.
** Conclusion: A call for action **
The rise of the extreme right in Germany is not only a national issue, but a call for action for the whole of Europe. European leaders must go beyond controversies and work together to build an inclusive political framework, approaching crises at the root. To counter the speeches of fear, it is the responsibility of traditional parties to reinvent their strategies, to listen to the legitimate concerns of citizens and to forge a better future, based on dialogue, social cohesion and shared prosperity. The way in which Germany and Europe will manage these crises will not only determine their political stability but also their collective identity for the years to come.