A politically unusual alliance is forming in the eastern German state of Saxony-Anhalt: the far-right AfD and the BSW — the party founded by former Left Party politician Sahra Wagenknecht — are reportedly joining forces to advocate for negotiations with Moscow. Despite sitting on opposite ends of the traditional left-right spectrum, both parties share a broadly pro-Russia, anti-war-aid stance. For expats living in Germany, regional political developments like this one matter because they can shape the national conversation and, over time, influence the policies that govern daily life — including on migration and integration.
According to reports, both the AfD and BSW are pushing for negotiations with Russia, and this shared foreign policy position is what is bringing them together in Saxony-Anhalt. The rapprochement is notable because the two parties have very different ideological roots: the AfD is a nationalist, far-right party, while BSW emerged from the left-wing tradition.
What unites them, analysts suggest, is a shared scepticism of German and Western support for Ukraine, and a preference for diplomacy with Moscow. Eastern German states have historically shown stronger sympathies for Russia-friendly positions, partly due to cultural and historical ties from the East German era.
For most expats and immigrants in Germany, the question of negotiations with Russia may feel distant from daily concerns. But regional political alliances — especially ones involving the AfD — are worth tracking for two reasons.
First, the AfD's growing influence at the regional level can affect state-level policies on integration, social services and how local authorities interact with foreign nationals. Second, unusual coalitions like this one can signal broader political realignments that eventually affect federal policy debates.
The BSW, while more sympathetic to social protections than the AfD, has also taken positions on migration that diverge from progressive parties. Their alliance, even on a single issue, normalises cross-ideological cooperation that could have wider implications.
For expats who may be less familiar: BSW (Bündnis Sahra Wagenknecht) is a relatively new political party in Germany, founded by former Left Party MP Sahra Wagenknecht. It combines economically left-leaning positions — such as higher wages and stronger social protections — with more conservative stances on migration and a sceptical view of Germany's support for Ukraine. It has gained notable support in eastern German states.
Regional coalitions and parliamentary alliances can influence state-level decisions, including on how integration services are funded or administered. However, core immigration law in Germany is set at the federal level. If you live in Saxony-Anhalt and have concerns about how local political developments might affect services available to you, it is worth staying in contact with your local Ausländerbehörde or integration support organisations.
The source material does not specify the current governing coalition in Saxony-Anhalt. For the most current information on state-level government composition, check a reputable German news source or the official state government website.
The AfD-BSW alliance in Saxony-Anhalt is a reminder that German regional politics can produce unexpected combinations. For expats and immigrants, the key takeaway is that the political landscape — particularly where the AfD is involved — is worth monitoring. If you live in eastern Germany, staying informed about your local political environment is especially relevant. For any questions about your personal rights or status, the Ausländerbehörde or a qualified immigration adviser is your best resource.
Source: dw_english
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