Thousands gathered in the serene town of Quedlinburg in eastern Germany on a sunny August day to listen to a prominent far-right leader discuss the nation’s future. Many arrived on Simson motorcycles, symbolizing the Alternative for Germany (AfD) party, to meet Ulrich Siegmund, the AfD’s candidate for leading Saxony-Anhalt.
The AfD is experiencing a surge in popularity, with polls indicating a potential historic win in the upcoming regional election that could make it the first far-right party to hold state power in Germany since World War II. If successful, the party aims to influence state resources, particularly in education, with plans to implement initiatives like segregated classrooms for refugees, fostering ties with Russia through student exchanges, and emphasizing a patriotism agenda that shifts focus away from Germany’s Nazi history.
Supporters at the gathering expressed admiration for Siegmund, with one 17-year-old attendee calling him an idol. Meanwhile, across the street, counter-protesters waved rainbow flags and sang songs in solidarity against the AfD, raising concerns about the party challenging human rights and democratic values.
The AfD’s lead in opinion polls in Saxony-Anhalt stands at 42%, according to surveys, and the party also commands a 28% national rating. Originally an anti-Euro party in 2013, the AfD shifted its focus to immigration issues in 2015, aligning with the public sentiment following a surge in refugee intake during Chancellor Angela Merkel’s tenure.
The party’s manifesto in Saxony-Anhalt outlines controversial goals such as advocating for “remigration,” restricting immigration from non-EU nations, and implementing policies like banning Pride flags in schools. The AfD’s rise has sparked fears among immigrants like Akinola Sanyaolu, a Nigerian resident, who faces racism and uncertainty about his future in the country.
Experts warn that the AfD’s potential victory could have repercussions beyond Saxony-Anhalt, impacting Germany’s federal dynamics and potentially challenging legislative processes. With the party’s ties to far-right movements and Russia, concerns are mounting over its influence on domestic intelligence services and foreign relations.
As the election date approaches, the AfD’s growing popularity raises questions about Germany’s postwar democratic norms and the potential implications of a far-right party assuming power at the state level.