Germany’s recent elections saw the Christian Democrats (CDU/CSU) win, shifting from a coalition government with the SPD, Greens, and FDP. The SPD faced a historic low at 16.4%, while the far-right AfD gained significant seats at 152, posing risks for democracy and Jewish communities. There are expectations for the new government to tackle issues like immigration and antisemitism, with hope for improved support for Israel.
The recent elections in Germany have marked a significant departure from the previous coalition government of the Social Democrats, Greens, and Liberal Democrats. The Social Democrats (SPD) experienced a historic decline, obtaining only 16.4% of the votes, while the Greens garnered 11.6%. The FDP failed to secure the necessary 5% to participate in the next Bundestag, reflecting widespread dissatisfaction among the electorate with the outgoing government.
The Christian Democrats (CDU/CSU) secured a victory with 28.5% of the votes and are expected to form a new coalition government with the SPD. However, a major concern is the rise of the far-right party, the Alternative for Germany (AfD), which gained 10.4% of the votes and will occupy 152 seats in the Bundestag. The official classification of the AfD as potentially extremist poses challenges for democracy and Jewish communities in Germany.
The AfD’s success is alarming, particularly due to historical sensitivities around right-wing extremism in Germany. If democratic leaders do not address the AfD’s populist narratives, particularly regarding antisemitism and immigration, the party’s influence could continue to grow, potentially leading them to victory in future elections.
Currently, it seems unlikely that any democratic party would collaborate with the AfD in a coalition. However, if left unaddressed, the issues raised by the AfD could seep further into mainstream politics. The CDU/CSU, under Friedrich Merz, has begun to acknowledge the threat posed by the AfD and is reportedly willing to tackle these delicate subjects, such as immigration and integration amid rising public fears.
Merz’s comments suggest a new understanding that immigration policies must include certain “ground rules” tied to accepting Germany’s historical responsibilities, including recognizing Israel’s right to exist. This acknowledgment is crucial in combating antisemitism and incitement within Germany, adhering to the IHRA definition of antisemitism.
There are expectations for the new government to take active measures against hate groups and anti-Israel rhetoric, particularly in the wake of pro-Hamas demonstrations. A proactive stance against entities like PFLP and Samidoun has been indicated in recent reports.
Additionally, CDU/CSU members have shown intent to condition their support for coalition agreements on halting funding for UNRWA due to concerns about terrorist collaborations, especially following the events of October 7th. Merz’s assurances to Prime Minister Netanyahu regarding his visit also signify an approach that aligns with supporting Israel and acknowledges Germany’s responsibilities.
In conclusion, the election results represent a pivotal moment for Germany’s political landscape. The CDU/CSU’s stance offers hope for addressing extremism and fostering a respectful dialogue related to Israel. Sacha Stawski of Honestly Concerned emphasizes the need for unbiased media coverage of related issues and stands firm in the fight against antisemitism. This op-ed encourages vigilance and engagement in combating rising extremism and ensuring democratic values prevail in Germany.
The elections in Germany signified a critical shift in the political landscape, highlighting a move towards the Christian Democrats while bringing the far-right AfD into the spotlight. Despite the potential challenges ahead, particularly regarding populism and antisemitism, there is hope with the CDU/CSU’s willingness to confront these issues. The commitment to ensuring democratic integrity and supporting Israel reflects an adaptive political response to the evolving sentiments among the German populace. Essential next steps involve establishing firm policies to address these growing concerns.
Original Source: www.jpost.com
