Germany is bracing for federal elections this Sunday, marked by intense debate over migration and xenophobia. The government of Chancellor Olaf Scholz has seen a 70% increase in deportations since 2020, while opposition candidate Friedrich Merz has vowed to prevent asylum seekers from entering the country and expel dual citizens who commit crimes.
As election campaigns intensify, politicians are perpetuating racist discourse, which is alarming. However, a glimmer of hope emerges with Die Linke, the only party that refuses to engage with xenophobic rhetoric. Despite initial polls showing dwindling support, Die Linke has surged to 7% in recent weeks.
Co-leader Heidi Reichinnek’s powerful speech against Merz’s cooperation with the far-right AfD sparked a viral reaction on social media, boosting membership and new followers. Young supporters affectionately call her “Queen Heidi” for her passionate advocacy of economic redistribution, abortion rights, and unrestricted asylum.
Die Linke’s surge is particularly noteworthy among younger voters and under-18s, who are increasingly drawn to the party’s commitment to human rights and challenging billionaires’ interests. While policy differences remain significant, a Die Linke victory could significantly strengthen opposition against xenophobic and economically unequal politics.
The author Fatma Aydemir sees this development as a welcome shift in Germany’s electoral landscape, where politicians must confront their own biases to forge a more inclusive future. As the election nears, the outcome will determine whether the country will continue its divisive path or embark on a new trajectory of social justice and equality.
Source: https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2025/feb/20/in-these-dark-times-of-racially-charged-election-campaigns-the-german-left-offers-a-flicker-of-hope