Far-Right Election Win Causes Deep Worry Among German Immigrants
Mamad Mohamad felt mixed emotions on Sunday. He is a new Green party lawmaker. He watched the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) win a historic election. This happened in Saxony-Anhalt, an eastern German state. Mr. Mohamad is one of the first lawmakers with an immigrant background. He called his success a “poisoned victory.”
Mr. Mohamad, a Yazidi Kurd, came to Germany from Syria in 1996. He had hoped for a celebration. Instead, the AfD performed better than expected. Chancellor Friedrich Merz’s party saw its worst result ever.
The AfD wants strict immigration rules. They say Germany has lost border control. They believe migration pressures public services and safety. Their plan for Saxony-Anhalt includes deporting rejected asylum seekers. They also suggest businesses use artificial intelligence to reduce the need for skilled migrants.
The AfD denies its words harm migrants. They insist they only oppose illegal migration. AfD co-leader Alice Weidel said they welcome positive contributors. These include those who work, are skilled, pay taxes, and follow laws.
Immigrant communities feel great worry. Undra Dressler leads the State Network of Migrant Organisations. She said this election result caused unease, but no surprise. Migrants often face discrimination and barriers in work, education, and healthcare.
Ms. Dressler believes this result is a turning point. Many immigrants are planning to leave the state. Some have already left. Pascal Begrich manages a democracy group. He agreed that many migrants and employers are rethinking their future in Saxony-Anhalt.
Companies wonder if they should operate there. They also question if workers will be safe. Mr. Mohamad fears this political shift. He thinks it will be harder to attract new people. Saxony-Anhalt already has fewer people. Skilled workers and families will go elsewhere, he said.
Germany’s laws protect minorities. All governments must follow these rules. Ms. Dressler stressed this point. She added that Germany’s other 15 states must monitor the situation and intervene if needed.
