21 Feb The politics of division are thriving in Germany – the Telegraph

Director of the British Foreign Policy Group, Sophia Gaston, wrote for the Telegraph on news of another far-Right terrorist attack in Germany. She argues that whilst the spread of poisonous ideologies is prevalent in many countries around the world, the social conditions in Germany are provided the perfect melting pot for the politics of division. Sophia argued that whilst history may be kind to Angela Merkel, many Germans will find it hard to look past the current divided state of their country.

Sophia, on the conditions responsible for the politics of division, said that: “the migration crisis in Germany is not solely responsible for the social polarisation gripping the country. This seismic event exacerbated tensions that had simmered just beneath the smooth surface waters for many years. Yet, there is no doubt the social tinder box unleashed in this period has wrought profound consequences for Germany’s society and politics.”

She went on to say: “the narratives of the far-Right have gained a particular foothold in the East, and it is no coincidence that both the protest movement Pegida and the AfD political party have their origins there. Some 30 years on from reunification, the region continues to suffer from poorer economic and social outcomes than the West, with the mass emigration of much of its young talent contributing to a sense of decline. Like other parts of Europe that transitioned after 1989, the psychological consequences of unrealised ambitions have bred resentment and shame.”

According to Sophia: “it is easy to dismiss the actions of extremists, but they are often the violent expression of a much deeper social malaise.”

You can read the full article here.

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