House of Worship - The challenges to the AfD in election appeals have become "clearer and more structured."
Before the European election on the 9th of June, both major churches have issued stern warnings against voting for the AfD. This is an unprecedented move, as a political analyst pointed out: "Compared to past elections where individuals expressed their opinions more freely, the messages this time are clearer and more organized," said Sabrina Mayer, a professor of Political Sociology at the University of Bamberg. This development is attributed to the rise and influence of the AfD as well as the increasing clarity on their positions.
Prof. Mayer believes that distancing oneself from the AfD is a sound long-term strategy. She stated, "While surveys show that religious affiliation and religiosity no longer shield preferences for the AfD, it's essential to note that the media's portrayal of this distancing also plays a significant role."
Typically, appeals prior to elections would target various audiences, including their own members or congregants. However, according to Prof. Mayer, these messages "could be perceived as insignificant, given that the number of people still connected to these institutions is dwindling." Yet, she cautioned against dismissing the effects of these appeals entirely, emphasizing that their impact on public opinion and image should be considered.
It’s not just political parties distancing themselves from the AfD; civil society organizations such as associations, unions, foundations, and companies are joining in. This widespread distancing creates a societal statement against the AfD.
In February, the Catholic Church in Germany, in their meeting in Augsburg, strongly condemned the AfD: "After several radicalization steps, a nationalist-nationalist ideology has taken over within the 'Alternative for Germany' (AfD). We urge citizens, even those who don't share our faith, to reject and disregard the political offers of the far-right."
The top lay body of the Catholics in Bavaria released a statement against the AfD for the European election, urging voters to choose a democratic party: "Candidates of the AfD are not electable since their positions are incompatible with the values and mission of Jesus among people."
Even Evangelical churches are distancing themselves from the AfD. At the state synod of the Evangelical Church in Bavaria, Landesbishop Christian Kopp stated in April: "Any parties representing nationalist, right-wing extremist, or foreigner-hostile positions are not suitable for Christians."
