The Rise of the Far Right: Why Young German Men Are Drawn to the AfD

A Growing Fear and a Desire for Change

In the fog-laden streets of Freiberg, Saxony, a sense of unease hangs heavy in the air. Nineteen-year-old Nick, a darts player in a local bar, voices a sentiment shared by many young German men: "I would like to live in a country where I don't have to be afraid."

This fear, often fueled by high-profile attacks involving asylum seekers, has propelled the far-right Alternative für Deutschland (AfD) to the forefront of German politics. Nick, along with his friend Dominic, 30, represent a growing demographic drawn to the AfD's orbit. While not opposed to all immigration, they see it as a central concern, particularly in light of recent events.

"The people who integrate, who learn, who study here, do their work - I have no problems with them," Dominic clarifies, highlighting a nuanced perspective often lost in the heated political discourse. He emphasizes the frustration of being labeled a "Nazi" for expressing concerns about the asylum system, a silencing effect that resonates with many.

The AfD's Appeal to Young Men

Recent Pew research reveals a stark gender divide: 26% of German men view the AfD positively compared to just 11% of women. This disparity, coupled with a surge in AfD support among young voters in the 2024 European Parliament elections, paints a clear picture of the party's growing influence, especially among young men.

Dr. Rüdiger Maas, from the German Institute for Generational Research, suggests that the left's focus on issues like feminism and equality alienates many men, pushing them towards the right. "Overall, men don't see themselves in these themes," he explains.

Professor Tarik Abou-Chadi of the University of Oxford adds another layer to this analysis, pointing to a reaction against "gender ideology" as a factor fueling far-right support. This, combined with anxieties surrounding migration and economic uncertainty, creates fertile ground for the AfD's message to take root.

Social Media as a Catalyst for Change

The AfD's savvy use of social media, particularly TikTok, allows them to bypass traditional media and connect directly with young audiences. With a substantial following on their official account and a network of unofficial fan pages, the party effectively disseminates its message.

Mauritius Dorn of the Institute for Strategic Dialogue notes the AfD's dominance on TikTok compared to other German parties, highlighting their early adoption of the platform as a key advantage. This digital prowess allows the AfD to cultivate a strong online presence and reach a demographic often disengaged from conventional politics.

Beyond Protest: A Desire for Radical Change

The AfD's appeal extends beyond mere protest voting. Supporters like Celina Brychcy, a 25-year-old TikTok influencer, actively promote the party's message. She advocates for stricter border controls, support for traditional family structures, and a return to military service, reflecting a desire for a return to what some perceive as traditional values.

While Ms. Brychcy rejects the label of "racist," her emphasis on integration and the assertion that some individuals simply "don't fit in with us Germans" reveals a complex interplay of cultural anxieties and national identity.

A Normalized Far Right?

As the horrors of Nazi Germany recede into the past, the far right has become increasingly normalized in German society. Professor Abou-Chadi observes that parties like the AfD "don't seem so extreme anymore," despite scandals and controversies.

This normalization poses a significant challenge for German democracy. With the AfD gaining influence and potentially reshaping the political landscape, the question remains: what will the long-term consequences be for a country grappling with its complex past and an uncertain future?