Chartbook 474: The state is the problem - the AfD’s anti-systemic diagnosis of contemporary Germany.

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1. 2d ago

   AfD Gains Ground in Eastern Germany with Anti-Systemic Platform

   The far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party is securing significant electoral victories in eastern German states. Following a triumph in Saxony-Anhalt, the party is currently seeking allies to form a state government. The AfD's rise is driven by an anti-systemic diagnosis that views the state itself as the primary problem. This growth is accompanied by messaging that mirrors Vladimir Putin and has caused anxiety among Turkish residents in Germany. These wins reflect a broader trend of far-right normalization across Europe and create uncertainty regarding Germany's economic renewal.

   Why it matters

   The AfD challenges the established political order by framing contemporary German governance as fundamentally flawed. Its success in the east signals a geographic shift in political alignment. This movement intersects with international influences and domestic ethnic tensions.

   What is confirmed

   • The AfD achieved an election triumph in Saxony-Anhalt.
   • The AfD is seeking allies to form a state government.
   • The far-right is gaining ground in eastern Germany.

   Still unconfirmed

   • AfD messaging mirrors that of Vladimir Putin.
   • The AfD's rise puts Germany's economic renewal on shakier ground.
   • Turkish residents in Germany are anxious following the AfD wins in Saxony-Anhalt.

   What to watch next

   • Further electoral results from other eastern German states.
   Sources used for this update (9)

   1. BBC — German far-right set for big win eastern state - exit polls
   2. The New York Times — With Messaging That Mirrors Putin’s, Germany’s Far-Right Party Gains Ground
   3. Reuters — After election triumph, German far-right seeks allies to form state government
   4. Adam Tooze | Substack — Chartbook 474: The state is the problem - the AfD’s anti-systemic diagnosis of contemporary Germany.
   5. dw.com — Turks in Germany anxious after AfD wins in Saxony-Anhalt
   6. The American Prospect — Germany’s Far Right, China, and Trump
   7. Bloomberg.com — Far-Right Win Puts Germany’s Economic Renewal on Shakier Ground
   8. Star Tribune — Rash: German election reflects the far-right’s rise in Europe
   9. The Guardian — The far right is becoming normalised in Germany – and winning. Australia should take heed | Charlotte Feakins
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