In Saxony-Anhalt, the AfD's breakthrough reflects the state's economic hardships
According to France 24, the far-right party's victory in this German state can be partly explained by a deteriorating economic context marked by industrial decline and a GDP contraction in 2025.
Saxony-Anhalt, a state located in eastern Germany, is characterized by an aging population, relative poverty, and a markedly rural character, according to France 24. Since German reunification, its inhabitants have experienced a persistent sense of decline.
Based on data cited by France 24, per capita gross domestic product (GDP) in this state is below the German national average, while the unemployment rate there exceeds that same average.
The deindustrialization that began in the 1990s accelerated under the pressure of Chinese economic competition and weakening domestic demand, according to the same source.
This economic deterioration is reflected in recent macroeconomic figures: Saxony-Anhalt's GDP contracted by 0.2% in 2025, while it grew by 0.2% in the rest of Germany over the same period, France 24 reports.
France 24 draws a connection between this economic context and the electoral victory of the Alternative for Germany (AfD) party in this state.
Sources
- En Saxe-Anhalt, la victoire de l'AfD s'appuie sur une économie à la peine — France 24 — Français
EGazette summarizes reporting from multiple sources; follow the links for the originals.
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