In a historic turn of events, Germany’s recent federal elections have reshaped the nation’s political landscape. The centre-right Christian Democratic Union (CDU), led by Friedrich Merz, secured victory with 28.6% of the vote, positioning Merz as the likely next chancellor. However, the most striking development was the surge of the far-right Alternative für Deutschland (AfD), which garnered 20.8% of the vote, marking its strongest performance since its inception. This significant gain has prompted discussions about the AfD’s future role in German politics and the potential selection of a chancellor candidate.
AfD’s Electoral Surge
Founded in 2013, the AfD initially focused on opposing the European Union but has since evolved into a party known for its anti-immigration and nationalist stance. The recent elections saw the AfD doubling its parliamentary presence, increasing its seats in the Bundestag from 83 to 152. This surge is particularly pronounced in eastern Germany, where the AfD emerged as the leading party in states such as Saxony, Saxony-Anhalt, Thuringia, Brandenburg, and Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania. The party’s success is attributed to its ability to mobilize non-voters and capitalize on public concerns over immigration and national identity
Alice Weidel: The Face of AfD’s Rise
Central to the AfD’s ascent is its co-leader, Alice Weidel. In December 2024, the AfD’s federal executive board nominated Weidel as the party’s first-ever chancellor candidate, a decision set to be ratified at the party conference in January 2025. Weidel’s leadership has been instrumental in reshaping the party’s image and broadening its appeal. Her articulate representation of the party’s platform has resonated with a segment of the electorate dissatisfied with traditional parties
Anti-Muslim Policies and Public Perception
The AfD’s platform includes explicit anti-Islam policies. In its manifesto, the party asserts that “Islam is not a part of Germany,” advocating for bans on minarets and the burqa. This stance has drawn criticism from various quarters, with many labeling the party’s policies as extremist and xenophobic. Despite this, the AfD’s message has found traction among voters concerned about cultural integration and national identity
Implications for Coalition Building
Despite its electoral gains, the AfD faces significant challenges in translating its success into governmental influence. Other major parties, including the CDU and the Social Democratic Party (SPD), have categorically ruled out forming coalitions with the AfD, citing fundamental differences in values and policies. Friedrich Merz has emphasized his commitment to forming a government that represents the entire German population, explicitly excluding collaboration with the AfD. This political isolation limits the AfD’s ability to directly influence policy through traditional legislative means
The Path Forward for AfD
The AfD’s unprecedented electoral performance raises questions about its future trajectory. With Alice Weidel poised as the chancellor candidate, the party aims to solidify its position as a formidable force in German politics. However, breaking through the “firewall” established by mainstream parties requires strategic recalibration. The AfD may need to moderate certain policies or reframe its messaging to appeal to a broader electorate and potential coalition partners. Additionally, the party’s success has sparked debates about the rise of far-right ideologies in Europe and their implications for democratic institutions
Shifting political paradigm
The 2025 German federal elections have underscored a shifting political paradigm, with the AfD emerging as a significant player. While the party’s anti-Muslim policies and nationalist rhetoric resonate with a substantial portion of the electorate, they also contribute to its political isolation. As the AfD contemplates its next steps, including the formal nomination of Alice Weidel as its chancellor candidate, the broader implications for Germany’s political landscape and social cohesion remain a focal point of discussion.
References
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“Germany election results: conservative leader claims victory.” The Times, 24 February 2025
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“Five takeaways from Germany’s historic election.” Financial Times, 24 February 2025
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“Candidates of the 2025 German federal election.” Wikipedia, 24 February 2025
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“Anti-immigrant AfD says Muslims not welcome in Germany.” Reuters, 1 May 2016
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“German hard-right party AfD gets strongest showing since WW2 amid pressure on mainstream parties to break ‘firewall’.” The Scottish Sun, 24 February 2025
