ifo Dresden: The Popularity of the Far-Right AfD and the Far-Left BSW Parties in Eastern Germany above All an Expression of a Perceived Disadvantage

The popularity of the far-right AfD and the far-left BSW parties in Eastern Germany are above all an expression of a perceived disadvantage. In addition, many are concerned that they will not be able to maintain their existing social status in the wake of current change processes. But the success of these parties is not due to an objectively less favorable economic situation. That is indicated by analyses of the 2024 European election results carried out by ifo Dresden in the run-up to the state elections in Saxony, Thuringia and Brandenburg. “Populist parties are particularly popular in regions with a high number of elderly voters, and where people have little confidence in the future,” says Joachim Ragnitz, Managing Director ifo Dresden. “A high level of dissatisfaction with their own economic situation also favors such voting behavior. However, there is no link to factors such as regional economic strength or an unfavorable labor market situation.”