In Zwickau, a city in former East Germany, the far-right AfD party has gained considerable ground, fueled by anxieties about economic insecurity and the lingering trauma of past authoritarian regimes. The city, once a stronghold of the automotive industry, has experienced economic challenges since reunification in 1990. This has led to a sense of fear and uncertainty among residents, with many feeling that they are losing the progress they have made. This fear has been further amplified by the recent economic crises, including the COVID-19 pandemic and the war in Ukraine, which have exacerbated financial hardships and increased anxieties about the future. The AfD has skillfully capitalized on these anxieties, positioning itself as a champion of the working class and a voice against the perceived threats of globalization and immigration. While some residents have voiced opposition to the AfD’s growing influence, their protests have not been enough to stem the tide of support for the far-right party. This growing support for the AfD has raised concerns about the future of Zwickau and the potential for the far-right to further entrench itself in German society.
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