In brief
With the AfD gaining traction in Western Germany, local leaders are seeing a shift in public perception despite its extremist roots. As it attempts to reach beyond its Eastern stronghold, the party faces challenges in overcoming its controversial past.
In Duisburg, a hard-hit industrial city in Western Germany, the warm spring sun shines on bustling shops where city council member Alan Imamura engages with locals. Once met with hostility, Imamura’s affiliation with the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party now draws cheers. The AfD, declared an extremist group by national intelligence, has its roots in anti-euro sentiment but has evolved into a party driven by anti-immigrant sentiments. Historically popular in Eastern regions, the AfD has recently made significant gains in Western Germany, approaching 40% support in certain local districts during the recent federal elections. Imamura reflects on the shift, noting that just five years ago, his political presence sparked outrage. While the party fine-tunes its messaging, it continues to grapple with its past. A confidential report indicates a profound xenophobic mindset in the party’s leadership. Figures like Bjorn Höcke have drawn comparisons to Nazi rhetoric, advocating for harsh deportation policies. As the AfD tries to reshape its image, their ongoing extremist views remain a substantial challenge.
