Photo:webshot. 

February 22, 2025

Anna Murray 

Germany is set to hold its federal election on February 23, 2025, with the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) polling at around 20%. This poses a significant challenge to the long-standing strategy of mainstream parties, which have traditionally sought to isolate the far right.

AfD’s rise is closely tied to ongoing debates over immigration and security. Several deadly attacks during the election period, allegedly involving immigrants, have intensified demands for stricter asylum policies. The party’s success in regional elections and its growing appeal among young voters indicate a shift from being a primarily regional force to becoming a significant national political player.

Meanwhile, Germany’s business sector has expressed growing concern over AfD’s rising influence. Leading companies have publicly opposed extremism, and a report by the German Economic Institute (IW) found that 77% of business leaders view AfD’s ascent as a potential threat to the stability of the European Union and the eurozone

.