Germans in Finland express concern following far-right AfD's state election win

Far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) has secured a significant victory in the eastern German state of Saxony-Anhalt, a development that has raised concerns among Germans residing in Finland. The AfD claimed 43.8 percent of the vote, surpassing the conservative Christian Democratic Union (CDU), which received 17.2 percent. Robert Stark, a dual Finnish-German citizen who has lived in Finland for nine years, noted that the AfD's popularity surge has been apparent for a decade.

Stark emphasized that the AfD has been the only party actively engaging with people at family celebrations, setting up bouncy castles. He warned that Finns should be more aware that the AfD is a pro-Russian party that opposes EU sanctions against Russia, preferring to use terms like "special military operation" instead. Stark pointed out that many Germans yearn for a return to traditional values, a sentiment that aligns with Russian President Vladimir Putin's rhetoric about Western society's shortcomings.

Pastor Hans-Christian Daniel, who has lived in Finland for over 50 years, shared that the AfD appeals to people's dissatisfaction by speaking emotionally rather than factually, regardless of the issue, such as gas prices or unemployment. Daniel was particularly troubled by the AfD's immigration policies, which he believes echo Hitler's anti-Semitic views from the 1920s.

The AfD's triumph is noteworthy, as no far-right party has governed a German state since World War II. However, the party did not secure a clear majority, suggesting it will need to collaborate with other parties or individuals to assume power in Saxony-Anhalt.