dw.com
Rising AfD Polling Numbers Signal Potential Shift in German Politics
Recent polls show a significant rise in support for the Alternative for Germany (AfD) party, potentially impacting the 2029 German federal elections, with the AfD aiming for a potential coalition.
- What is the AfD's three-step strategy to achieve its goals?
- The AfD's strategy involves: 1) Waging a "cultural war" against what they define as "left-wing" parties (Greens, SPD, Die Linke); 2) Positioning themselves as the only alternative to the CDU/CSU and SPD, aiming to split the governing coalition; 3) Increasing pressure on the CDU/CSU by offering alternative economic and fiscal policies, to become their natural coalition partner in 2029.
- What is the current polling data for the AfD, and what is its strategic goal?
- The AfD's poll numbers are surging, reaching almost 15% in local elections and showing strong support in eastern Germany (39% in Thuringia, 37% in Saxony and Saxony-Anhalt, 32% in Brandenburg) and western Germany (19% in Bavaria, 18% in Hesse). Federal polls show a potential tie with CDU/CSU at around 15%. Their strategic goal is to win the chancellorship in 2029.
- What concerns are raised by political scientists regarding the AfD's strategy?
- German political scientists express concerns about the AfD's strategy, identifying "anti-democratic elements." Their focus on social division and challenging democratic institutions through a lack of commitment to fundamental principles of parliamentarism and democratic cooperation is seen as problematic.
Cognitive Concepts
Framing Bias
The article presents a concerning rise of the AfD party in Germany, framing it as a potential electoral threat. The use of phrases like "electoral thriller," "white nights" for established parties, and the repeated emphasis on the AfD's rising poll numbers, creates a sense of urgency and alarm. While presenting factual poll data, the framing undeniably highlights the AfD's success and the anxieties it provokes within the established political landscape. The headline, if included, would likely reinforce this framing.
Language Bias
The article uses strong language such as "white nights," "electoral thriller," and describes the AfD's rise as an "onslaught." While these descriptions are evocative, they are not strictly neutral and could be interpreted as biased against the AfD. The description of the AfD's internal document as detailing a plan "for the chancellery" might be interpreted as alarmist. More neutral alternatives could be used to convey the same information without the negative connotations. For example, instead of "white nights", one could write "concerns" or "challenges".
Bias by Omission
The article focuses heavily on the AfD's rise and its strategic goals, but lacks in-depth analysis of potential counter-strategies or responses from other parties. It also doesn't explore in detail the specific policy proposals of the AfD beyond the broad strokes of a "cultural war" and economic policies. A more balanced perspective would include these missing elements. The omission of a counter-narrative or analysis of the broader social and economic context contributing to the AfD's rise could be seen as a bias by omission.
False Dichotomy
The article presents a somewhat simplistic dichotomy between the AfD and the governing parties (CDU/SPD). While highlighting the AfD's strategic goal of positioning itself as the only alternative to this duo, it neglects the presence and potential influence of other political parties in the German political landscape. This binary framing oversimplifies a complex political reality.
Sustainable Development Goals
The rise of the AfD, a far-right party in Germany, and its strategic goals pose a threat to democratic institutions and processes. The article highlights the AfD's plan to exploit social divisions, challenge the democratic system, and potentially form a coalition government in 2029. This undermines democratic principles, the rule of law, and inclusive political participation, thus negatively impacting SDG 16 (Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions).