Immigrant's rising fear in Germany; AfD

In recent years, Germany has been at the center of the European migration debate, grappling with the complexities and implications of accepting a large influx of migrants and refugees. Chancellor Angela Merkel's decision in 2015 to open Germany's doors to more than one million asylum seekers, mostly from war-torn Syria and other conflict zones, marked a turning point in German history and sparked intense debate at home and abroad.

From a logistical point of view, the arrival of such a large number of migrants and refugees put the German authorities under immense pressure to process asylum applications, provide adequate housing and deliver basic services. Overburdened reception centers could barely meet basic needs, causing overcrowding and backlogs in paperwork. Language barriers and cultural differences further complicated integration efforts, affecting access to education, employment opportunities and social interactions.

Furthermore, security concerns and the possibility of extremism among migrants have increased public anxiety and political debate. Incidents such as the 2016 Berlin Christmas market attack, carried out by failed asylum seekers, have prompted calls for stricter immigration controls and increased surveillance measures. These security concerns intersected with broader concerns about the cultural and demographic impacts of immigration, contributing to the polarization of societal debates about identity, integration and national cohesion. Immigration has had a strong impact on public debate and social dynamics in Germany, exposing deep divisions and contradictory attitudes among the population.

While many Germans showed solidarity and compassion towards refugees, especially during the first refugee wave in 2015, a significant portion of society expressed concern and skepticism about the long-term effects of immigration. The rise of populist and far-right political movements, notably the Alternative for Germany (AfD), exploited public fears about immigration to gain votes. The AfD's platform, calling for stricter immigration controls, reduced refugee admissions, and the defense of traditional German cultural values, appealed to voters disillusioned with established parties' responses to the immigration issue. The AfD's political program revolves around reducing immigration, preserving Germany's cultural identity, and tightening asylum regulations.The party opposes what it sees as excessive influence over national sovereignty by the European Union, and advocates stricter border controls to manage migration flows.

"Mut zu Deutschland" (Courage for Germany): emphasizes the AfD's stance on national sovereignty and patriotism, and calls on Germans to be proud of their country and to resist perceived interference in national identity by outside influences, including the European Union.

"Deutschland. Aber normal." (Germany. But normal.): suggests a desire to return to what the AfD presents as traditional German values ​​and a rejection of what it sees as excessive political correctness and multiculturalism.

The AfD's stance on immigration resonates with some voters who are disappointed with how mainstream parties have addressed integration and security concerns related to mass immigration. Since its founding, the AfD has had significant electoral success, particularly in state elections and the European Parliament. In the 2017 federal elections, the AfD entered the Bundestag for the first time, becoming the third largest party. The party's electoral success reflects voters' dissatisfaction with traditional political elites and their view that they are failing to address socio-economic anxieties and cultural identity issues exacerbated by immigration. Despite its electoral success, the AfD has been subject to criticism and controversy. Critics accuse the party of promoting xenophobia, Islamophobia, and divisive rhetoric that undermines social cohesion and inclusion.AfD leaders have made inflammatory statements about immigration and Islam, which have led to a polarized public discourse and increased tensions within German society.

Protests against the Alternative for Germany (AfD) are an important response to the party's nationalist, anti-immigrant and populist policies in German society. These protests encompass a wide range of actions, from large demonstrations organized by civil society groups and political parties to targeted counter-demonstrations aimed at disrupting AfD events and challenging its rhetoric. Motivated by concerns about the AfD's xenophobia, Islamophobia and discrimination against minorities, protesters often portray their resistance as a defense of democratic values ​​and human rights, and argue that AfD policies undermine social cohesion and exacerbate divisions within German society.

Creative forms of protest, such as art installations and symbolic gestures, are also used to reinforce these messages. These activities aim not only to raise public awareness of the impact of AfD programs, but also to mobilize support for inclusive measures that promote diversity and equality. Despite influencing the public debate and political reactions to the AfD, the protests have occasionally encountered problems, such as clashes with police and counter-demonstrators. Critics of the protests argue that disruptive tactics may unintentionally reinforce the AfD's victim narrative and undermine the legitimacy of peaceful opposition movements. Nevertheless, protests against the AfD continue to serve as a visible and vocal expression of opposition to the party's policies and reflect ongoing debates about the future direction of German politics and society.

Despite AfD, Civil society organizations, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and grassroots initiatives proved to be important actors in supporting integration efforts and facilitating intercultural dialogue. Volunteers provided language lessons, legal assistance, and social support networks to help newcomers overcome bureaucratic hurdles and foster community ties.These initiatives played a central role in bridging divisions, promoting understanding between different communities, and combating narratives of division and exclusion.