Part 8/10:
These social disparities are not merely economic; they stretch into cultural and political realms. Many East Germans today express feelings of resentment and mistrust towards the West, fearing that their advancements and hard-won gains are at risk due to policies imposed from the West, particularly surrounding migration and social reforms.
The Rise of Populist Parties
This cultural and socio-economic rift has created fertile ground for non-traditional populist parties like the AFD and the far-left BSW to gain traction in the East. Their political platforms resonate with voters who feel that their needs—rooted in historical injustices and modern-day challenges—are overlooked by established parties like the SPD and CDU.