The Guardian view on the far right’s real weapon: it is the politics of powerlessness
From Dover to Saxony-Anhalt, extremists thrive when voters believe established parties can no longer deliver security, prosperity or meaningful change
TL;DR
- Far-right agitation in England and the AfD's electoral success in Germany both stem from the perception that political systems have lost control.
- The AfD's potential rise to power in Saxony-Anhalt could lead to policies hostile to migrants, Islam, LGBTQ+ rights, and climate action, with some leaders linked to neo-Nazi groups.
- Both the English 'Patriot Platform' vigilantism and the AfD's platform capitalize on a feeling of powerlessness related to migration, borders, economic change, and national identity.
- The rising far right across Europe is linked to immigration being a test of state governance, with political alienation being a key driver of support for parties like the AfD.
- Voter distrust in democracy's ability to effect change is a core issue, with governments in Germany and Britain often citing constraints that can sound like a veto on democratic choice.