What is AfD and how did it rise?
AfD (Alternative for Germany) is a far-right, right-wing populist and national-conservative party that began in 2013 as a Eurosceptic movement opposed to eurozone bailouts.[1] Over time it has transformed into a force defined by strong opposition to immigration, Islam, EU integration and ambitious climate policy, while promoting a nationalist vision of German identity.[1][3]
The party entered the Bundestag in 2017 and quickly expanded its footprint to most state parliaments and the European Parliament, disrupting Germany’s traditionally centrist party system.[1][2] Its support surged after the 2015 refugee crisis and again during recent elections, particularly in eastern states where it now dominates regional politics and has achieved the first far-right state-level victory in Germany’s postwar history.[2][3][4]
Ideology, extremist label and domestic impact
AfD’s core platform combines hardline anti-immigration policies, welfare restrictions for non-citizens, and rejection of multiculturalism with Euroscepticism and denial of human-caused climate change.[1][3] It demands closed borders for many asylum seekers, tougher rules on citizenship and benefits, and looser ties to the EU while encouraging higher birth rates among ethnic Germans.[1]
German security authorities now classify AfD at the federal level as a confirmed right-wing extremist endeavor, citing racist and anti-Muslim positions and anti-constitutional tendencies.[1] This designation allows closer monitoring and has sparked debate about whether public funding or certain activities should be curtailed, even as AfD uses the move to reinforce its narrative that it is a persecuted challenger to the political establishment.[1][2]
European and global implications of AfD’s rise
AfD’s growing strength is reshaping German and EU politics, particularly on migration, climate policy and relations with Russia.[1][3] In parliament it pressures mainstream parties to harden their positions on immigration and border control, and its vocal opposition to EU climate measures makes already difficult decarbonization efforts more contentious.[2][3]
Internationally, AfD aligns with other nationalist and Eurosceptic movements and has cultivated ties to segments of the American right, receiving endorsements from prominent US figures that amplify its message.[2][3] Its stance against military aid to Ukraine and sanctions on Russia, combined with its challenge to EU integration, raises concerns among allies that a stronger AfD could complicate future coordination on security, economic and climate policies in Europe and beyond.[1][3]