Regional democratic processes - Significance of Eastern Elections in Shaping Minority Political Landscape
Upcoming elections in the Eastern region are viewed as significant for minority rights in Germany by the leader of the South Schleswig Voter Association (SSW), Lars Harms. "If extreme nationalist groups emerge victorious in the elections, if fascist parties win, if entities hostile to humanity triumph, minorities will face challenges," Harms expressed to the German Press Agency. This sentiment holds true for minorities such as the Sorbs, Frisians, Danes, and even the Sinti and Roma who reside across Germany.
These individuals necessitate protection. "Hence, I believe we should bolster our measures, even on a nationwide level, and back democratic parties," Harms suggested. Simultaneously, it's essential that democratic parties avoid internal fragmentation post-election.
"It's crucial to convey: Democrats unite, and that's a barrier against radical forces," Harms underlined. "This isn't solely about the AfD, but also the Alliance Sahra Wagenknecht. They may not all adhere firmly to the liberal democratic framework."
Elections in the East
On September 1, Thuringia and Saxony will select their new state legislatures, followed by Brandenburg three weeks later. These are three federal states with a joint population that barely reaches half that of North Rhine-Westphalia. In all three states, the AfD leads in polls: approximately 30% in Saxony, approximately 28% in Thuringia, and approximately 25% in Brandenburg. The BSW also secures scores of 15 to 20% in the three states.
In light of the upcoming elections in the East, concerns about minority rights in neighboring countries, such as The Netherlands, may also arise. For instance, the Dutch Roma and Sinti communities could potentially face similar challenges if extremist groups gain power in the German elections.
In contrast to Harms' calls for unity among democratic parties in Germany, the Dutch political landscape could benefit from strengthening cooperation between its liberal democratic parties, preventing the rise of extremist forces within its borders as well.
