Turks in Germany anxious after AfD wins in Saxony-Anhalt

The Alternative for Germany (AfD) party's recent electoral victory in Saxony-Anhalt has sparked widespread concern among the Turkish community in Germany. Gökay Sofuoglu, co-chair of the Turkish Community in Germany, reported that many business owners in the region expressed alarm after the AfD's 43.8% vote share. Sofuoglu stated that some were contemplating shutting down their businesses and leaving, but for now, they are waiting to see how the government is formed.

The rise of the AfD is seen as a threat to democracy in Germany by Sofuoglu, who believes the party's true target is the country's constitution. The AfD's success has also instilled fear of rising nationalist violence, reminiscent of past neo-Nazi terror activities in Germany. Lawmaker Irmak, who moved to Germany nine years ago, agreed that the AfD's rise is concerning but not unexpected, attributing it to government policies that failed to address citizens' needs.

She emphasized that the AfD's emergence would not resolve Germany's structural problems, especially in states with aging populations like Saxony-Anhalt. Despite the concerns, Sofuoglu and Irmak both stressed the importance of understanding the AfD's broader goals and not merely reacting to their anti-migration stance.