Editorial: Germany’s Right Turn
The resonance of far-right politics among younger voters suggests that Germany’s political landscape is undergoing a generational shift
The victory of conservative Christian Democrats in Germany’s national election conforms to a broader trend of the rise of right-wing politics across the West. The narrative that caters to the nativist instincts, protectionism and a strong sense of cultural pride appears to be finding traction among voters. The conservative and right-wing parties have emerged on the top at a time when Germany, the most populous and wealthiest European nation, finds itself at a crossroads amid growing friction with the United States and deepening divisions within the 27-member European bloc. Christian Democrat Union (CDU) leader Friedrich Merz is all set to be Germany’s next chancellor, leading a coalition government. The far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) secured a historic second place with a 20.8% vote share, a sign of increasing political polarisation and disenchantment with mainstream politics. The resonance of far-right politics among younger voters suggests that Germany’s political landscape is undergoing a generational shift. Overall, the national mandate reflects a broader European trend of rising far-right movements, fuelled by economic frustrations, migration concerns and a desire for political disruption. Chancellor Olaf Scholz conceded defeat for his centre-left Social Democrats. The election took place seven months earlier than planned after Scholz’s unpopular coalition collapsed in November. The poll campaign was dominated by worries about the prolonged stagnation of Europe’s biggest economy and pressure to curb migration — something that caused friction after Merz pushed hard in recent weeks for a tougher approach.
Even 35 years after the reunification of East and West Germany, the country is still divided, and so are its voters. The elections were held against a background of growing uncertainty over the future of Ukraine and Europe’s alliance with the United States. The return of Donald Trump as the US President for a second term has altered the equations in the West because of his disruptive policies. His public statements mocking European nations, laying the blame for the ongoing war at the doorstep of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and virtually shielding Russian President Vladimir Putin have turned the region’s geopolitics upside down. Friedrich Merz’s criticism of Washington’s volte-face on Ukraine suggests that Germany may seek a more independent role in European security. This stance aligns with concerns across Europe about the unpredictability of US foreign policy. Merz, a cultural conservative and a liberal in his economic outlook, is now faced with the challenge of forging a stable coalition government with Social Democrats who paint him as a right-wing populist. As Germany charts its course under a new government, it will need to balance its commitments to NATO, the European Union, and economic partnerships while addressing internal divisions. The coming weeks will be crucial as coalition talks unfold, shaping not only Germany’s future but also the direction of European politics in an increasingly uncertain world.
