In the recent Brandenburg state elections, the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party has emerged as a significant force among young voters, capturing nearly a third of the first-time voter demographic.
This marks a stark shift from the traditional youth support for progressive causes like climate action and multiculturalism.
The AfD's success is partly attributed to its strategic use of social media platforms like TikTok, where it has outperformed other parties in engaging the youth.
This trend mirrors similar outcomes in other German states like Saxony and Thuringia, where the AfD has also gained traction among younger voters.
The results have sparked concern among established political parties, prompting introspection about their appeal to younger generations.
The youth's inclination towards the AfD is seen as a reaction to perceived failures in addressing economic and social issues, such as affordable housing and public transportation, rather than a mere protest vote.