The Economic Roots of Far-Right Resurgence in Eastern Germany

The Alternative for Germany’s (AfD) strong showing in Saxony-Anhalt’s election on Sunday has raised alarms about the party’s potential to take power at the state level, marking a disturbing milestone for German post-war politics. However, as we examine the AfD’s stronghold in Eastern Germany, it’s essential to look beyond its anti-immigrant and pro-Russian rhetoric to understand the underlying causes of this phenomenon.

Historians often point to the lingering effects of reunification as a key factor in shaping Eastern Germany’s distinct identity. The sudden collapse of state-owned enterprises following the fall of the Berlin Wall led to widespread unemployment, particularly among young women, who were disproportionately affected by the economic disruption. This period of transition has left an indelible mark on the collective memory of East Germans, fostering a deep-seated sense of loss and disillusionment.

Elisabeth Kaiser, Eastern Germany’s commissioner, described this experience as “devaluation,” where everything that had been taken for granted was suddenly turned upside down. This sense of disorientation has persisted across generations, with many East Germans feeling disconnected from the rest of the country. The AfD has effectively tapped into this sentiment, capitalizing on perceived injustices and losses inflicted by reunification.

The party’s success in Eastern Germany is not simply a product of its nationalist or anti-immigrant stance. Rather, it represents a symptom of broader disillusionment with post-reunification economic policies that failed to address the region’s unique challenges. As Kaiser noted, many East Germans feel that their concerns and experiences have been ignored by Berlin, leading to a sense of abandonment.

The AfD’s rise in Eastern Germany also reflects growing frustration with EU immigration policies, which are perceived as neglecting local communities’ needs and interests. While the party’s stance on immigration is undoubtedly inflammatory, it taps into widespread feelings that refugee influx has exacerbated economic competition and social tensions.

As we watch the AfD’s momentum in Eastern Germany, it’s essential to recognize that this phenomenon is not unique to Germany or Europe. The rise of far-right parties across the continent – from France’s National Front to Italy’s Northern League – reveals a deeper pattern of disillusionment with globalization, free trade, and economic policies that have left many communities behind.

In Eastern Germany, the AfD’s success has created a perverse incentive for other parties to adopt similar rhetoric and policies. As the party edges closer to taking power at the state level, it’s crucial that the German government addresses the underlying causes of this phenomenon, rather than simply dismissing it as xenophobia or nationalism.

The outcome of Saxony-Anhalt’s election will serve as a bellwether for Germany’s post-war politics. However, more importantly, it highlights the need for a nuanced understanding of the economic and historical factors driving far-right resurgence across Europe. Only by confronting these underlying causes can we hope to stem the tide of extremism and build a more inclusive, equitable society – one that truly values the experiences and concerns of all its citizens.

The collective memory of East Germans is complex and multifaceted, shaped by decades of economic disruption and social upheaval. The AfD’s success in Eastern Germany represents a symptom of this broader historical trauma, rather than simply a product of divisive rhetoric or policies. To truly address the challenges facing Germany and Europe, we must recognize the intricate web of factors that has given rise to this phenomenon – and work towards creating a more just and equitable society for all.