The strategy of political exclusion aimed at isolating the Alternative für Deutschland (AfD) has demonstrably failed, according to Sahra Wagenknecht, founder of the newly formed BSW (Bundnis für Bürgerwille) party. In a commentary published in the German newspaper “Welt”, Wagenknecht delivers a sharp critique of the established “firewall” approach – a tactic employed by other parties to prevent the AfD from entering government.
Wagenknecht argues the strategy, intended to marginalize the far-right party, has had the counterproductive effect of bolstering its support and attracting extremist elements. She likened the “firewall” to the “antifascist protective wall” of former East Germany, a charged comparison reflecting her belief that the tactic recalls authoritarian tactics.
The increasing strength of the AfD, coupled with this rigid exclusionary policy, has resulted in unstable, often sprawling coalitions at the state level. These coalitions, encompassing all parties except the AfD, maintain power only as long as those parties secure at least 5% support. This ultimately breeds compromise coalitions lacking cohesive policy direction and operational efficacy.
Critically, Wagenknecht contends that voters disappointed by these lackluster coalitions are increasingly turning to the AfD, perceiving it as a viable alternative. “The ‘firewall’ has been and remains a considerable gift for the AfD” she states explicitly. The BSW’s recent decision to join a government in Thuringia, based solely on the shared goal of barring the AfD from power, is now termed a “rookie mistake” signaling a shift in the party’s political orientation. The BSW has declared it will no longer participate in such “firewall” coalitions.
Looking forward, Wagenknecht proposes a radical departure from traditional party-driven governance. She advocates for “expert governments” composed not of party representatives but of competent, experienced individuals. These individuals would seek parliamentary approval for specific policy proposals rather than operate under the constraints of party ideology. Wagenknecht posits that such a system would offer “a new chance for parliamentary democracy” suggesting a fundamental re-evaluation of Germany’s political landscape. Her proposal, while presented as a democratic alternative, carries implications for the established power structures within the German political system and represents a bold challenge to the current status quo.
