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The resistance to the far right has to get serious now
Fatma Aydemir
Guardian Europe columnist and Berlin-based journalist, novelist and playwright
Recent electoral results in Germany reveal a pronounced increase in support for far-right parties, posing a significant threat to marginalized communities within the nation, including women, immigrants, LGBTQ+ individuals, people of color, Jewish citizens, and those with disabilities. This growing support, with one in five voters backing a party whose leader has made aggressive declarations, underscores a grave challenge to democratic principles that should alarm all citizens.
This alarming trend was highlighted by the leader’s chilling proclamation, reminiscent of historical warnings that have often stirred uncomfortable debates about the role of dissent and opposition in politics. This rhetoric, while aimed at other political figures, carries a clear message for all within society who oppose the narrow views espoused by the far-right party. The crucial question now is which additional voices may join their ranks in both speech and action.
In the immediate aftermath of the election results, I attended an event in Berlin focused on promoting pluralism and opposing fascism. This gathering drew a diverse crowd, including activists, artists, and scholars, united in hope and concern for the future. Where less favorable outcomes seemed imminent, participants instead chose to celebrate incremental achievements, such as the exclusion of certain conservative parties from parliament and the significant gains made by the left-leaning parties.
Clearly, concerted action is required to bolster our collective response against far-right ideologies. This involves not only maintaining solidarity but also expanding efforts beyond metropolitan areas like Berlin. Importantly, the focus must remain on defending civil and human rights as a primary objective. While these themes have been discussed before, reaffirming them is critical after a pivotal election that may alter the landscape for progressive movements.
Alice Weidel had reason to be elated: the AfD can’t be ignored now
Katja Hoyer
German-British historian and author of Beyond the Wall: East Germany, 1949–1990
The results of the recent elections in Germany might lead observers to believe that consensus-driven politics still thrives in Berlin. The conservative CDU/CSU emerged as the clear winner, with Friedrich Merz poised to take on the chancellorship. Olaf Scholz, the sitting chancellor, conceded defeat gracefully, avoiding any suggestions of electoral impropriety.
However, beneath this veneer of stability lies a fractured political environment. After the second world war, conservative leadership in the country pledged to prevent any party from gaining traction to their right. This goal has now failed, as the AfD has seen a significant increase in support, doubling its numbers from previous elections.
Alice Weidel, the leader of the AfD, recognized the impact of her party’s newfound prominence, asserting that they have firmly established themselves as a “people’s party.” This claim, once reserved for the dominant CDU/CSU and SPD, demonstrates the shifting dynamics within German politics.
With the AfD gaining ground, they represent a new challenge for Merz as he seeks to form a coalition. All parties have pledged to shun collaboration with the AfD, yet Weidel’s invitation to engage in dialogue with those in power suggests an intent to erode the barriers that have kept her party marginalized.
In a landscape where opposition notably lacks the responsibilities of governance, the AfD can exploit divisions among centrist parties, maintaining its role as a force in the political discourse without the need for compromise.
80% voted for liberal democracy – Merz should govern for them
Cas Mudde
Stanley Wade Shelton UGAF professor of international affairs at the University of Georgia
The recent election in Germany can be categorized as emblematic of broader trends seen throughout Western Europe, showcasing a marked decline in support for centrist parties while far-right movements gain traction.
While there was some movement toward the right, particularly concerning anti-immigration sentiments, the outcomes did not align with more extreme predictions. The CDU/CSU received under 30% of the vote, marking their second-lowest result, and the AfD, despite being the runner-up, could not meet its earlier performance in state elections.
The centrist parties must recognize the diversity within Germany’s political milieu. With the nation facing economic challenges and altering global dynamics, it is crucial for the new government to forge a consensus that reflects a commitment to liberal democratic values rather than succumbing to far-right pressure.
To appeal to voters, Merz and his coalition partners must focus on a broader socio-economic agenda rather than fixating solely on immigration issues. This means addressing the needs of the 80% who cast their ballots in favor of more progressive values while not alienating those who support far-right ideologies.
Merz is caught between conservatism and authoritarianism, at home and abroad
Mariam Lau
Political journalist with Die Zeit
The atmosphere at the Christian Democrats’ celebration was tinged with somber reflection despite their victory. An overwhelming voter turnout indicates widespread unrest and dissatisfaction with the current political climate. Though the CDU secured a modest percentage of votes, Merz finds himself on the cusp of taking on the chancellorship.
Despite being a prominent figure in business law, Merz has yet to govern, faced with a nation grappling with economic recession and deepening social tensions. The rise of the AfD signifies a new layer of complexity that Merz must navigate as he steps into leadership.
Merz’s history reflects a condemnation of the far-right, maintaining social and political distance from their controversial positions. Yet, his recent engagement with the AfD on legislation indicates a potential shift in approach as he seeks to consolidate power and navigate contentious political waters.
As he embarks on this journey, he must contend with the pressing geopolitical landscape, including foreign influence in domestic politics and the necessity of maintaining Germany’s position in Europe amidst growing uncertainty.
In this context, addressing the concerns of both conservative elements at home and the expectations of international partners will prove to be a significant challenge for the future chancellor.
Europe needs German leadership to save NATO and the EU
Paul Taylor
Senior visiting fellow at the European Policy Centre
Amid geopolitical turbulence, especially surrounding Ukraine, Europe is in dire need of robust leadership from Germany as it navigates complex relations within NATO and the EU. With a history of a weak government, Germany must now assert itself effectively on the continental stage.
Friedrich Merz, stepping into this critical role, has articulated a vision of a stronger Germany capable of providing substantial leadership. With an emphasis on fostering European unity and independence from external influences, he aims to recalibrate Germany’s defense strategies in light of recent global dynamics.
However, it remains uncertain how far Merz can reconcile the German public’s reservations about military expansion and defense spending, particularly as he seeks to cultivate deeper ties with neighboring nations.
Merz’s capacity to re-establish relations with European allies and spearhead collaborations on defense and foreign policy challenges will set the tone for his leadership in a rapidly evolving European landscape.
This was a bad result for progressives, but Merz lacks a strong mandate
Dominic Schwickert
Executive director of the independent thinktank Das Progressive Zentrum
While the electoral results certainly reflect a challenging environment for progressive solutions, they also indicate that Merz’s mandate is not robust. The electorate’s dissatisfaction with the previous coalition was palpable, showing a desire for change rather than a mere endorsement of the CDU/CSU’s agenda.
This nuanced political climate presents an opportunity for a centrist coalition to stabilize Germany’s governance, ensuring strong representation while addressing the pressing challenges at hand. The necessity for a rapid resolution to coalition negotiations highlights the urgency for leadership that prioritizes global dynamics over internal strife.
Ultimately, moving forward, it is essential for the new government to develop a forward-thinking agenda centered around defense, security, and foreign policy—fostering an approach that reflects Germany’s role as a critical player in an increasingly complex global landscape.
With the election cycle concluded, there is a collective hope that discussions will pivot swiftly towards maintaining a stable Germany capable of effectively addressing the evolving political landscape of Europe and beyond.
Source
www.theguardian.com