Germany's democracy under siege as far-right AfD and neoliberal forces converge
German democracy faces growing threats from multiple directions. The far-right AfD has made significant gains, while neoliberal policies erode political freedoms. Meanwhile, an alliance between radical conservatives, authoritarian neoliberals, and the far right is taking shape.
The Left Party now sees an urgent need to counter these forces by mobilising disillusioned voters and protest movements. Over the past five years, the AfD has expanded its influence in Germany. In the 2026 Baden-Württemberg state election, it nearly doubled its vote share to 18.8%, securing 35 seats and a direct mandate in Mannheim I. The party has also pushed opposition initiatives in the Bundestag, including challenges to the 2025/2026 budget, attempts to halt UN payments, and calls for a return to nuclear power. These moves signal its consolidation as a strong right-wing opposition force.
At the same time, neoliberal policies have weakened democracy by prioritising corporate power over workers and environmental protections. Authoritarian neoliberals have further fuelled resentment by targeting migrants and unemployed people. This climate of insecurity and despair has allowed the AfD and its allies to thrive.
A new authoritarian alliance is emerging, uniting radical conservatives, authoritarian neoliberals, and the far-right AfD. Critics argue that neoliberal policies are paving the way for creeping fascism by dismantling democratic institutions and stoking social divisions.
In response, the Left Party is calling for a democratic revolution. Its strategy involves winning over disillusioned centre-left voters, non-voters, and protest supporters to build a strong anti-fascist movement. The AfD's electoral growth and parliamentary activity highlight its rising influence. Neoliberal policies continue to undermine democratic structures, creating space for far-right advances. The Left Party's push to unite disaffected voters could shape the political landscape in the coming years.
Read also:
- American teenagers taking up farming roles previously filled by immigrants, a concept revisited from 1965's labor market shift.
- Weekly affairs in the German Federal Parliament (Bundestag)
- Landslide claims seven lives, injures six individuals while they work to restore a water channel in the northern region of Pakistan
- Escalating conflict in Sudan has prompted the United Nations to announce a critical gender crisis, highlighting the disproportionate impact of the ongoing violence on women and girls.
