Why is far-right AfD dominating in northeast Germany?

The Rise of the Far-Right in Germany: Understanding the AfD’s Surge in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern

In recent snap elections held in Germany, the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party achieved its best-ever results, particularly in the northeastern state of Mecklenburg-Vorpommern. The party emerged as the strongest political force in the region, with a staggering 40.4% of the votes in the small town of Pasewalk. This dramatic shift in voter allegiance has sparked questions about the underlying reasons behind the AfD’s growing popularity in this picturesque yet economically challenged region.

A Closer Look at Pasewalk: A Microcosm of Regional Challenges

Pasewalk, a quaint town with a mix of traditional houses and prefab flats, is located about 90 minutes by train from Berlin. Despite its charming appearance and strong sense of community, the town faces significant challenges. Mayor Danny Rodewald highlights the feelings of neglect among residents, who feel underfunded and overlooked by the federal government. "We need better financial support," he emphasized, pointing to the lack of recreational facilities and the need for more housing investment to attract new residents. While the AfD secured twice as many votes as the second-strongest party, the CDU, Rodewald stresses that this does not necessarily reflect widespread unhappiness with life in Pasewalk. Instead, it signals a deeper frustration with federal policies and economic struggles.

Federal vs. Local Governments: A Tale of Two Realms

The snap election in late February was for the federal government, distinct from state-level governance. Residents in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern expressed frustration over federal decisions, particularly regarding the allocation of taxpayer money for weapons in Ukraine while domestic issues like homelessness and soaring food prices remain unaddressed. Michael Ammon, chairperson of the local Social Democratic (SPD) association, noted that dissatisfaction with federal policies does not equate to discontent with local governance. He acknowledged, however, that voters are turning away from major parties due to unmet expectations. Ammon remains hopeful that the new government, once formed, can revitalize the economy by reducing bureaucracy and addressing inflation, potentially diminishing the appeal of the AfD.

The Rural-Urban Divide: A Key Factor in the AfD’s Success

The rural-urban divide played a significant role in the AfD’s success. In the village of Groß Luckow, a mere 200 residents strong and distant from basic amenities, a record 75% of voters supported the AfD. Detlef, a local farmer nearing retirement, articulated the sentiment of many rural residents: "We’ve been deceived and cheated for years. Prices for food have become so expensive, and nothing ever changes." He criticized previous governments, particularly the CDU and SPD, for failing to address rural concerns. Detlef expressed hope that the AfD might bring change, echoing the party’s anti-immigrant rhetoric and its promise to prioritize German citizens over foreigners. Enrico Komning, an AfD representative, pointed to structural issues such as a shortage of skilled workers, high taxes, poor infrastructure, and excessive bureaucracy as key challenges hampering the region’s economic development.

The AfD’s Promise: A New Direction for Mecklenburg-Vorpommern?

The AfD has capitalized on widespread frustration, presenting itself as a viable alternative to the established political parties. Komning emphasized the region’s reliance on small and medium-sized enterprises, tourism, agriculture, and skilled trades, arguing that poor infrastructure and incomplete projects, such as key motorway connections and high-speed rail links, are stifling growth. He also criticized the lack of progress in addressing rural "dead zones" regarding internet connectivity. Komning framed the upcoming state elections in September 2026 as an opportunity for a policy shift that could usher in a new era for the region. However, for now, the focus remains on the federal government’s ability to revive the economy and address pressing concerns, which could influence whether voters continue to gravitate toward the AfD.

The Road Ahead: Can the New Government Stem the AfD’s Tide?

As Germany transitions to a new government, the pressure is on to deliver tangible results. If the SPD and CDU, currently in coalition talks, succeed in reviving the economy and restoring public trust, they may yet stem the AfD’s rise. However, if economic struggles persist and federal policies continue to alienate rural and small-town voters, the far-right party may continue to gain ground. The outcome of the snap elections serves as a stark reminder of the deep-seated frustrations shaping Germany’s political landscape, with Mecklenburg-Vorpommern as a microcosm of broader challenges. The coming months will reveal whether the new government can address these issues and reconnect with disaffected voters or if the AfD will continue to capitalize on the prevailing sense of discontent.