The 2017 German Federal Election; A Tight Race With Unexpected Consequences for Europe

Germany, the beating heart of Europe, has long been known for its stability and pragmatism. This image of stoicism, however, was momentarily shaken in 2017 when a series of unexpected events unfolded during the German federal election. While Angela Merkel ultimately secured her fourth term as Chancellor, the election revealed deep-seated anxieties within German society and exposed fissures that would have repercussions across the European continent.

The election campaign itself was characterized by a heightened sense of uncertainty. The rise of the far-right Alternative für Deutschland (AfD) injected a volatile element into the political landscape, challenging the long-held consensus and forcing established parties to confront uncomfortable realities. Issues such as immigration, economic inequality, and national identity dominated public discourse, reflecting a broader trend of populism sweeping across Western democracies.

As the table above illustrates, the CDU/CSU, Merkel’s conservative bloc, emerged as the largest party but fell short of securing a clear majority. This necessitated complex coalition negotiations, ultimately resulting in a “grand coalition” government between the CDU/CSU and the Social Democratic Party (SPD). While this arrangement was seen by many as a necessary compromise to ensure political stability, it also underscored the fragmentation within the German electorate.

The success of the AfD, entering the Bundestag for the first time with 12.6% of the vote, sent shockwaves through the political establishment. Their anti-immigrant rhetoric and Eurosceptic stance resonated with a segment of the population disillusioned by globalization and fearful of social change. While their gains were significant, they ultimately fell short of forming their own government, prompting accusations from within the party that they had failed to capitalize on their momentum.

The consequences of the 2017 election extended far beyond Germany’s borders. The AfD’s success emboldened other far-right movements across Europe, contributing to a rise in xenophobia and nationalism. It also underscored the growing disconnect between traditional political parties and the electorate, highlighting the need for innovative solutions to address societal anxieties.

The emergence of the AfD, however, was not solely a product of Germany’s internal dynamics. The 2015 refugee crisis, which saw over a million asylum seekers arrive in Germany, played a significant role in fueling anxieties about immigration and national identity. The influx of refugees strained public resources and sparked debates about cultural integration, ultimately contributing to the rise of populist sentiment.

Merkel’s decision to open Germany’s borders to refugees, while lauded by some as a humanitarian gesture, drew fierce criticism from her opponents. The AfD capitalized on this controversy, portraying Merkel’s actions as a betrayal of national interests and a threat to German identity. Their rhetoric resonated with those who felt that their concerns about immigration were being ignored by the political establishment.

In the aftermath of the election, the grand coalition government faced significant challenges. The SPD, weakened by its electoral performance, struggled to maintain its support base while navigating complex policy issues. The AfD, despite its failure to gain power, continued to exert influence on the political discourse, pushing for stricter immigration policies and challenging the existing order.

The 2017 German federal election serves as a stark reminder of the volatility of contemporary politics. While Merkel ultimately retained her position as Chancellor, the election exposed deep-seated divisions within German society and highlighted the fragility of the European project. The rise of the AfD, fueled by anxieties about immigration and globalization, underscored the need for political leaders to address these concerns head-on while upholding democratic values.

In conclusion, the 2017 German Federal Election was a pivotal event not only for Germany but for Europe as a whole. It revealed a continent grappling with issues of identity, migration, and the changing nature of work in an increasingly globalized world. The outcome of the election, while preserving stability in the short term, also underscored the need for long-term solutions to address the underlying anxieties that fueled the rise of populism. Only by confronting these challenges head-on can Europe hope to build a more inclusive and sustainable future.