Thousands of Germans have protested against the far-right Alternative für Deutschland after the party won a state election, with concerns growing over two more polls this month.
Key facts
- Thousands protested against the AfD following its state election win in Saxony-Anhalt.
- Demonstrators held a peaceful pro-democracy rally at Berlin's Brandenburg Gate.
- Concern is focused on upcoming votes in Berlin and Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania.
- The AfD has called for mass deportations of asylum seekers.
- The party backs a rollback of state support for renewable energy and public broadcasting.
Thousands of Germans have taken to the streets to protest against the far-right Alternative für Deutschland (AfD) after the party secured a watershed victory in a state election, according to the Guardian. Demonstrators warned that the AfD poses a danger in two further polls scheduled this month.
The AfD’s win came in Saxony-Anhalt, a result that has sparked alarm that Berlin and Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania may fall next, the Guardian reported. The outcome has prompted dismay among opponents of the party.
At Berlin’s Brandenburg Gate, protesters staged a peaceful pro-democracy rally denouncing the party. The Guardian described the AfD as anti-immigrant and pro-Russian.
The party has called for mass deportations of asylum seekers, according to the Guardian’s account of its policy positions. It has also advocated a rollback of state support for renewable energy and public broadcasting.
The protests reflect broader unease over the AfD’s growing electoral strength as Germany faces further state votes this month, with opponents mobilising to challenge the party’s momentum.
Why it matters
The AfD's electoral gains signal a significant shift in German politics, with a far-right party advancing in multiple states. The outcome of upcoming votes in Berlin and Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania could reshape the country's political landscape and its stance on immigration, energy and public broadcasting.
Frequently asked questions
Which state did the AfD win?
According to the Guardian, the AfD secured a victory in a state election in Saxony-Anhalt.
Which states face upcoming votes?
The Guardian reports concern that Berlin and Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania may fall to the AfD next in polls scheduled this month.
What policies does the AfD support?
The Guardian reports the party has called for mass deportations of asylum seekers and a rollback of state support for renewable energy and public broadcasting.