The recent state elections in Thuringia and Saxony in Germany saw a rise in support for far-right and far-left political movements, including the Alternative for Germany (AfD) and the Sahra Wagenknecht Alliance (BSW). Amid discussions on the distribution of votes and seats, a deeper look into how these extreme movements view Germany’s consensus on transatlanticism is necessary. This article delves into the historical context of German transatlantic relations, highlighting the influence of past leaders like Helmut Schmidt and their approach to the United States.
Reflecting on the 1970s when the Social Democratic Party (SPD) was dominant in Germany, a clear division of tasks between foreign policy and domestic policymaking was observed. The concept of the “Atlantic Bridge” played a crucial role in strengthening ties with the United States post-World War II. Fast forward to 2024, the current SPD Chancellor Olaf Scholz continues to support Washington despite global conflicts.
As the political landscape in Germany evolves with the rise of far-right and far-left movements, questions arise about the future of transatlantic relations. While the AfD and BSW may have differing views on America, mainstream parties like the SPD and CDU/CSU are expected to maintain a pro-transatlantic stance. The article also explores the potential for a shift towards a more comprehensive foreign policy approach, inclusive of countries like Turkey.
In conclusion, the article poses the idea of embracing a 360-degree foreign policy view that considers a wider range of global partners beyond just Russia and the U.S. This approach could help steer Germany away from the polarization caused by extreme political movements and towards a path of political common sense.
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