dw.com
AfD's Strong Showing in German Elections Fuels Conspiracy Theories, Raises Foreign Policy Concerns
In Germany's February 2025 federal elections, the far-right AfD secured over 20% of the vote, second place, sparking online conspiracy theories; the party's platform emphasizes a "Germany first" approach and cooperation with the US and Russia, potentially influencing German foreign policy.
- How did the dissemination of conspiracy theories and fear-mongering by the AfD and its media network contribute to their electoral success?
- The AfD's success is linked to anxieties surrounding war and economic instability, exploited by the party and its media allies like Jürgen Elsässer, whose publication Compact faces a ban for spreading conspiracy theories. This strategy leverages existing fears to gain political traction.
- What is the significance of the AfD's strong showing in the 2025 German federal elections, and what are the immediate implications for German politics and international relations?
- The AfD, a far-right German party, achieved a historic 20% of the vote in the February 2025 federal elections, fueling online conspiracy theories about election fraud. Their platform, promoting a "Germany first" agenda and echoing Trump's policies, resonated with voters concerned about the future.
- What are the potential long-term implications of the AfD's rise for German foreign policy, particularly in light of its relationship with the US and Russia, and how might this impact transatlantic relations?
- The AfD's potential influence extends beyond domestic politics. Its ideological alignment with the Trump administration, including connections to figures like Elon Musk and JD Vance, suggests a possible US strategy to weaken the EU through supporting radical nationalists, potentially destabilizing German foreign policy.
Cognitive Concepts
Framing Bias
The framing consistently portrays the AfD in a negative light, highlighting their association with conspiracy theories, extremism, and authoritarian figures. The headline and introduction set a critical tone, focusing on fears and doomsday scenarios associated with the party, potentially shaping the reader's interpretation before presenting factual details. The repeated emphasis on the AfD's extremism and the potential threat to German stability may overshadow other aspects of their political platform, including policies that might appeal to voters.
Language Bias
The article uses strong, emotionally charged language such as "doomsday scenarios," "conspiracy theories," "extreme right-wing," and "bloody war of aggression." While accurately reflecting the nature of the AfD's rhetoric, this language contributes to a negative portrayal and could influence reader perception. More neutral alternatives might include: instead of "doomsday scenarios," use "alarmist predictions"; instead of "conspiracy theories," use "unsubstantiated claims"; instead of "extreme right-wing," use "far-right"; instead of "bloody war of aggression," use "war in Ukraine.
Bias by Omission
The article focuses heavily on the AfD's rhetoric and actions, but gives less attention to counter-narratives or alternative perspectives on the issues raised. The lack of substantial analysis of the AfD's policy proposals beyond their alignment with Trump and Putin is a notable omission. The article also doesn't extensively explore the broader socio-economic factors contributing to the AfD's rise.
False Dichotomy
The article sometimes presents a false dichotomy between the AfD and the established political order, suggesting a simplistic opposition between 'them' and 'us'. The nuance of German politics and the potential for various coalitions isn't fully explored. The presentation of the AfD's foreign policy aspirations as either cooperation with autocratic powers or undermining the German government simplifies a more complex range of potential outcomes.
Gender Bias
While Alice Weidel is prominently featured, the article focuses primarily on her political activities and views, rather than on her personal characteristics. The analysis doesn't seem to exhibit overt gender bias. However, a more detailed examination of gender dynamics within the AfD might offer further insights.
Sustainable Development Goals
The rise of the AfD, a far-right party promoting conspiracy theories and potentially undermining democratic institutions, poses a threat to peace, justice, and strong institutions in Germany. The party's admiration for authoritarian leaders like Putin and Trump, coupled with its potential influence on foreign policy, destabilizes the political landscape and threatens international cooperation.