In the city of Zwickau, located in Germany’s industrial east, economic uncertainty and a turbulent history have fueled support for the far right ahead of an important regional election in Saxony. Zwickau, known for its automotive manufacturing hub, has seen residents experience a period of prosperity following German reunification, only to face recent crises such as the COVID-19 pandemic, the Ukraine war, and high inflation, causing fears of losing progress made. Some residents are turning to the far-right Alternative for Germany party as a form of protest. The AfD’s rise has also been fueled by a growing acceptance of their radical language and populist stances, with some attributing it to the city’s active right-wing extremist scene. The nostalgia for past authoritarian regimes and dissatisfaction with current political leadership have contributed to the AfD’s popularity in the region. However, the party rejects claims of undermining democracy, instead highlighting failures of mainstream conservatives in addressing border controls and asylum policies. This sentiment has caused concern for Volkswagen, which operates a large plant in Zwickau producing all-electric vehicles. The uncertainty surrounding the future of electric mobility and the potential impact of a right-wing government on jobs in the region have raised fears among workers and the company. The upcoming election in Saxony is closely watched as polls suggest a close race between the AfD and the CDU.
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Old traumas in Germany’s industrial east fuel rise of far-right movements
