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Farage Can't Get Away With This

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This analysis draws on a detailed conversation with Paul Ronsheimer, deputy editor of Bild Zeitung, to explore the recent rise of the Alternative for Germany (AFD), a far-right, pro-Russian, anti-EU party, which nearly won the election in Saxony-Anhalt.

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  1. The AFD has grown from an anti-euro party during the euro crisis to a major force capitalizing on public dissatisfaction with mainstream parties, especially after the 2015 migration crisis
  2. This analysis draws on a detailed conversation with Paul Ronsheimer, deputy editor of Bild Zeitung, to explore the recent rise of the Alternative for Germany (AFD), a far-right, pro-Russian
  3. Paul Ronsheimer highlights Saxony-Anhalt's election results where AFD secured around 43-44% of votes, overshadowing CDU's slump to 17%
  4. The prognosis warns of potential far-right ascendancy extending nationwide, noting current polls placing the AFD near 29-30%, far above what was previously considered possible
  5. Ronsheimer stresses a critical nuance: while AFD shares some historical echoes with Nazi-era movements, it is not simply a "new Nazi party"
  6. The AFD's leadership includes individuals with ties to extremist and fascist groups dating back decades and openly pro-Putin, pro-Russian stances
  7. Another overlooked insight is the reluctance of mainstream parties to ban the AFD despite acknowledging its danger
  8. A further unique point is the party’s explicit strategy not to enter coalitions, aiming instead to become a dominant force capable of reshaping the CDU and German politics broadly
  9. The party's success is explained partly by the broad voter dissatisfaction with established parties, exemplified by disillusioned CDU supporters defecting to the AFD
  10. However, these developments depend on continued socioeconomic dissatisfaction, handling of the Ukraine war, and responses by mainstream parties

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