Fact Check: AfD is popular in parts of Germany

Fact Check: "AfD is popular in parts of Germany"

What We Know

The Alternative for Germany (AfD) is a far-right political party that has gained significant traction in various regions of Germany, particularly in the eastern states. Established in 2013, the party has evolved from a Eurosceptic platform to one characterized by strong nationalist and anti-immigration sentiments. In the 2025 federal election, the AfD received approximately 20.8% of the vote, making it the second-largest party in the Bundestag and the largest opposition party (Wikipedia, Reuters).

The party's support is notably stronger in the former East Germany, where economic and social issues post-reunification have contributed to its popularity. For instance, in the 2021 federal elections, the AfD garnered 20.5% of the vote in East Berlin, while its support in western regions was significantly lower at 8.4% (Wikipedia). This trend continued into the 2025 elections, where the party's support in eastern states remained robust, reflecting a persistent divide in political preferences across the country (Wikipedia, Statista).

Analysis

The claim that the AfD is popular in parts of Germany is substantiated by multiple sources indicating the party's electoral performance and regional support. The party's rise can be attributed to various factors, including economic dissatisfaction, immigration concerns, and a general discontent with mainstream political parties (Wikipedia, Reuters).

However, the AfD's classification as a "confirmed right-wing extremist endeavour" by Germany's domestic intelligence agency adds a layer of complexity to its popularity. This classification has led to increased scrutiny and monitoring of the party's activities (Wikipedia, CNN). While the party's support is significant, it is essential to recognize that this popularity is not uniform across the country; it is particularly pronounced in rural areas and the eastern states, where socio-economic challenges persist (Wikipedia, The Conversation).

The reliability of the sources used in this analysis is generally high. Wikipedia provides a comprehensive overview of the AfD's history and electoral performance, while Reuters offers timely reporting on the party's rise and public perception. However, it is important to note that some sources, like opinion polls, may reflect transient sentiments and should be interpreted with caution (Opinion polling for the 2025 German federal election, Statista).

Conclusion

The claim that "AfD is popular in parts of Germany" is True. The evidence clearly indicates that the AfD has garnered substantial support, particularly in the eastern regions of the country, where it has become a significant political force. This popularity is driven by a combination of socio-economic factors and a reaction against mainstream political narratives, particularly concerning immigration and national identity.