What is Germany's political 'firewall' and can it keep out the AfD?
Alternative for Germany, or AfD, has established itself as a significant political force in the 13 years since its founding, but it has never been part of any state or federal government. That’s a result of what is often called a “firewall” against cooperation with the anti-immigrant, far-right party. France 24's Philip Turle explains.
After the recent election in Saxony-Anhalt, the political landscape remains complicated due to the Alternative for Germany (AfD) party securing nearly 44% of the vote but falling short of an absolute majority. This has made forming a new government at the state level particularly challenging. Additionally, the rise of the Sahra Wagenknecht Alliance (BSW), founded in 2024, has added an extra layer of complexity to the situation.
Sahra Wagenknecht, a former member of the socialist Left Party with an economic background, has been known for her flexible political views, distancing herself from traditional labels of "left" or "right." She has openly engaged with the AfD, believing some within the party are unfairly labeled as Nazis. Consequently, the BSW is now seeking common ground with the AfD, even considering helping AfD candidate Ulrich Siegmund become the state premier through abstentions in the vote.
While there is significant agreement on certain issues between the BSW and AfD, such as opposition to uncontrolled migration, ending German arms deliveries to Ukraine, and criticisms of freedom of speech, the BSW and AfD have ruled out a standard coalition. The BSW's leader, Sahra Wagenknecht, has stepped back from the party’s leadership, continuing to influence the party's activities but no longer running for the chairmanship.
The BSW's unexpected success in Saxony-Anhalt has given it a significant role in the formation of the government, despite the party failing to meet the 5% threshold for parliamentary entry in the 2025 federal election. Its leader's absence and numerous internal conflicts have contributed to this rise. Wagenknecht remains a prominent figure in the BSW, drawing large crowds during election campaigns and rallies.
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