dw.com
AfD Gains Ground in Gelsenkirchen Amidst Urban Renewal
In Gelsenkirchen, Germany, the demolition of dilapidated buildings, previously a key issue for the AfD, coincides with rising AfD support in local elections, fueled by socio-economic anxieties and concerns about immigration.
- How does the AfD's success in Gelsenkirchen relate to broader socio-economic trends in Germany?
- Gelsenkirchen, with its high poverty rate, exemplifies a pattern of AfD strength in areas with socio-economic hardship. The party capitalizes on feelings of political disenfranchisement and dissatisfaction with established parties, particularly regarding immigration and social welfare.
- What are the potential long-term consequences of a strong AfD showing in Gelsenkirchen's local elections?
- An AfD victory or significant gains could lead to cuts in social programs like the 'Lalok libre' center, impacting vulnerable children. Furthermore, the increased influence of a party with a history of inflammatory rhetoric raises concerns about political discourse and tolerance in the city.
- What is the immediate impact of the demolition of dilapidated buildings in Gelsenkirchen's Bismarck district?
- The demolition removes a symbol exploited by the AfD, which used the area's poor conditions and associated criminal activity to attract votes. The project aims to improve living conditions and counter the AfD's narrative, though its long-term impact on voter sentiment remains uncertain.
Cognitive Concepts
Framing Bias
The article frames the AfD's potential success in Gelsenkirchen as a direct consequence of socio-economic issues like poverty and dilapidated housing. The demolition of these properties is presented as an attempt to counter the AfD's narrative, suggesting a causal link between the party's rise and the city's problems. The headline (if there was one) likely emphasizes the demolition and AfD's potential gains, influencing reader perception of the situation's importance and potential solutions.
Language Bias
The article uses charged language such as "Schrottimmobilien" (derelict properties), "mafiösen Ausbeutungssystem" (mafia-like exploitation system), and "Müllhaufen" (rubbish heaps) to describe the situation in Bismarck, creating a negative image and implicitly associating it with the AfD's appeal. Neutral alternatives might include "dilapidated buildings," "system of exploitation," and "unmaintained properties." The repeated description of the AfD as "rechtsextreme" (right-wing extremist) might be considered biased, depending on the evidence and context.
Bias by Omission
The article focuses heavily on the negative aspects of the situation in Gelsenkirchen and the AfD's rise. It omits potential positive aspects of the AfD's platform or perspectives from supporters who may not fit the narrative of disgruntled and marginalized individuals. While the article mentions the AfD's focus on security, this is presented briefly and negatively. The article also does not explore potential reasons for the AfD's appeal besides the problems mentioned, potentially omitting other factors.
False Dichotomy
The article presents a false dichotomy between the established parties and the AfD, suggesting a simplistic choice between the status quo and radical change. It overlooks potential nuances and alternative solutions that go beyond this binary opposition. The focus on the AfD's potential success as either a positive or negative outcome overlooks more complex scenarios.
Gender Bias
The article features several women, including the social worker Venetia Harontzas and the SPD mayoral candidate Andrea Henze, whose roles and concerns are discussed in detail. There is no evidence of gender bias in the way these women are presented or the information presented about them. However, the article lacks sufficient information about the gender breakdown of AfD members and voters. The article does not seem to present gender bias in its reporting.
Sustainable Development Goals
The article highlights the disproportionate impact of poverty and lack of opportunity on specific communities in Gelsenkirchen, exacerbated by the rise of the AfD. The AfD's policies, if implemented, threaten to worsen inequality by opposing measures like minimum wage, top tax rates, and inheritance taxes, potentially leading to further marginalization of vulnerable groups. The success of the AfD is directly linked to the existing inequalities and could deepen them further. The situation in Gelsenkirchen, with high poverty rates and the exploitation of vulnerable migrants, serves as a stark example of the widening gap between the rich and poor. The potential dismantling of support systems like "Lalok libre" would further exacerbate this inequality.