Far-Right AfD's Historic Win Sparks Concern Across Generations in Germany

The recent state election in Thuringia, Germany, has sent shockwaves through the nation as the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party secured a historic victory. This unprecedented event, occurring 79 years after World War II, has sparked concerns across generations about the potential resurgence of extremist ideologies.

Nicki Kämpf, a 29-year-old mother living in Berlin with her wife and young daughter, expressed apprehension about their future in the wake of AfD's success. The couple is considering relocating to a more liberal area, fearing potential challenges to their family's safety and legal rights. Kämpf's concerns are particularly acute as she awaits the finalization of her daughter's adoption paperwork.

"I don't think I would be able to adopt her if they're in power. I don't want to bring her up in a hostile environment."

The AfD's victory in Thuringia, led by the controversial figure Björn Höcke, marks the first time a far-right party has won a state election in post-World War II Germany. This success, coupled with strong performances in neighboring Saxony, has raised alarms about the party's growing influence, especially in former East German states.

Several factors have contributed to AfD's rising support, including dissatisfaction with the current government, economic concerns, and anti-immigration sentiment. The party's success among younger voters is particularly noteworthy, with 38% of those aged 18-24 in Thuringia supporting AfD.

Older Germans, who lived through the Nazi era, express deep concern over these developments. Gudrun Pfeifer, 83, and Ursula Klute, 78, shared their distress, drawing parallels to their childhood experiences during and after World War II. Their testimonies serve as a stark reminder of the consequences of extremist ideologies gaining power.

Charlotte Knobloch, a Holocaust survivor and president of the Jewish Community of Munich and Upper Bavaria, cautioned against dismissing AfD's success as mere protest votes. She emphasized the conscious decision of voters to support the party, highlighting the gravity of the situation.

The election results have reignited discussions about Germany's historical education and the importance of preserving the lessons learned from the past. As the country grapples with this political shift, the challenge of balancing democratic principles with the need to prevent the resurgence of extremist ideologies becomes increasingly apparent.

As Germany faces this critical juncture, the coming months will be crucial in determining how the nation addresses the rise of far-right politics while safeguarding the rights and safety of all its citizens.