Far-right AfD aims for historic election result as economic concerns rise

Germany is currently facing a rise in the far-right political party known as Alternative for Germany (AfD), which is projected to achieve its strongest election result to date in the upcoming federal elections scheduled for February 23, 2025. This political development has been largely attributed to economic concerns and sentiments regarding immigration, particularly in East Germany, where AfD candidates are leading polls. The party has transformed into a key player within the German political landscape despite historically being marginalized. This transformation has coincided with national unrest over economic management and immigration policies following the recent collapse of Chancellor Olaf Scholz's governing coalition. East Germany has shown signs of strong support for AfD, driven by perceptions of economic insecurity despite the region's improvement in economic growth and a decreasing unemployment rate. Polls indicate that AfD holds significant support in East German states compared to other regions. Even though the reality reflects progress in economic conditions, many voters in this area feel a strong sense of grievance and disillusionment, believing that their economic situation remains unaddressed. The party's agenda is heavily focused on anti-immigration policies and has resonated with voters who feel alienated and resentful of mainstream parties. Alice Weidel, co-leader of AfD, embodies the party's anti-establishment rhetoric, appealing to sentiments of nationalism and economic independence. Recent meetings with Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán emphasize AfD's growing international connections with other far-right political movements in Europe, bolstering its profile on the continental stage. Despite AfD's rising popularity, mainstream German politics remain divided over collaboration with the party. Many political leaders have publicly declared intentions to maintain a figurative “firewall” against embracing AfD. The party is still under observation by national intelligence due to concerns over its ties to extremism, complicating any potential coalition efforts. The upcoming election serves not just as a measure of AfD's electoral strength but also as a litmus test of Germany's enduring challenges regarding economic discontent and identity politics, shaping the country's political future in profound ways.