The Alternative for Germany: Here to Stay?

In this webinar presented in partnership with the Aston Centre for Europe at Aston University, the International Association for the Study of German Politics and the BMW Center for German and European Studies, Georgetown University, Louise Davidson-Schmich and Sarah Wiliarty discuss the evolution of the Alternative for Germany’s political positions and electoral support.

After its dramatic entrance into the Bundestag in 2017 as the third largest party, the Alternative for Germany (AfD) went from strength to strength in various elections—in some cases with more than 20 percent of the vote, especially in the east. But, as the COVID-19 pandemic transformed life, as the party faces increased scrutiny from the authorities, and as in-fighting persists, its support has declined to 8-10 percent in polls. Still, unlike other right-wing parties previously, the AfD has not self-destructed and will almost certainly be back in parliament later this year. This webinar will examine the state of the party in the 2021 election year, as well as the level and nature of its support.

This webinar is supported by the German Marshall Fund of the United States and the Embassy of the Federal Republic of Germany. It is presented in partnership with The Aston Centre for Europe, Aston University, Birmingham, UK; the International Association for the Study of German Politics; and the BMW Center for German and European Studies, Georgetown University.