The AfD's election victory in Saxony-Anhalt has sent shockwaves through German civil society. Reporters Without Borders, a prominent international organisation that monitors press freedom worldwide, has issued a warning about what it describes as attacks on the infrastructure of democracy. Christian churches also responded publicly, adopting what observers described as a combative tone. For expats and immigrants living in Germany, this moment raises important questions: What does a stronger AfD presence mean for the country's democratic institutions, its media landscape, and the communities that depend on a free and open society?
Reporters Without Borders — known internationally as RSF — has specifically flagged concerns about threats to press freedom following the AfD's strong result in Saxony-Anhalt. The organisation describes the AfD as attacking the infrastructure of democracy, a serious charge that goes beyond ordinary political disagreement.
Press freedom is a cornerstone of democratic life. When it is under pressure, the ripple effects touch everyone: journalists face greater obstacles reporting on public interest topics, citizens receive less independent information, and minority communities — including immigrants and expats — may find fewer advocates speaking on their behalf in the public sphere.
It is important to note that these are the views and warnings of Reporters Without Borders and other organisations, not established legal findings. Nevertheless, when respected civil society bodies raise alarms, it is worth paying attention.
Germany's Christian churches, which have historically played a significant role in public moral discourse, also reacted to the Saxony-Anhalt result. According to reporting, they showed a combative side — signalling that religious institutions intend to remain active voices in defending democratic values.
For many expats, particularly those from countries where civil society and religious institutions have played roles in resisting authoritarian drift, this kind of institutional response may feel familiar. In Germany, churches have legal and social standing that gives their statements considerable weight in public debate.
Saxony-Anhalt is one of Germany's eastern federal states, and the AfD has historically performed strongly in the east. However, a result described as record-breaking — with unusually high vote shares and notable turnout figures — suggests this election carries symbolic weight beyond the region.
For expats and immigrants, the political climate matters in concrete ways. Immigration policy, integration programmes, and the tone of public debate about foreigners living in Germany are all shaped by which parties hold power and which ideas dominate political conversation. A stronger AfD presence in state parliaments can influence local administration, police policy, and cultural institutions.
At the federal level, Chancellor Merz and the governing coalition will be watching this result closely, as it adds pressure on parties to respond to voter concerns — including on migration and integration.
A state election result does not immediately change federal immigration law or your individual Aufenthaltstitel. Residence permits, visas, and citizenship processes are governed by federal legislation and administered by the Ausländerbehörde. However, the political direction set by election results can influence future policy changes at both state and federal levels. If you have concerns about your specific situation, consulting a qualified immigration lawyer or contacting your local Ausländerbehörde is advisable.
Reporters Without Borders' warning reflects concerns about long-term trends rather than an immediate emergency. Germany continues to have a free press and independent judiciary. That said, keeping informed through reliable media sources and staying connected with expat communities and civil society organisations is always sensible, particularly during periods of political change.
Organisations such as the Mediendienst Integration track immigration-related policy and public debate in Germany. BAMF publishes official guidance on immigration matters. For legal questions about your personal situation, an accredited immigration lawyer or a recognised migration counselling service can provide individual advice.
The AfD's election result in Saxony-Anhalt and the subsequent warnings from Reporters Without Borders mark a moment worth following carefully for anyone living in Germany as a foreigner. While no immediate changes to immigration law or daily life are triggered by this result alone, the broader political direction matters.
Stay informed through credible news sources, maintain your paperwork in order, and connect with local support organisations if you have concerns. If the political climate raises specific questions about your rights or status, seek advice from a qualified professional rather than relying on social media speculation.
Source: tagesschau
Want news like this in your inbox?
The most relevant news for expats in Germany, no noise.
From November 1st, Germany raises the passing standard for key language exams. Here's what it means for citizenship, permanent residence, and Integrationskurs applicants.
A leak of more than 420,000 AfD internal emails reportedly contains hate speech and discussions of potential crimes. Here's what is known and what is being investigated.
AfD co-leader Alice Weidel has revealed her party's plans for major EU reform. Here's what the proposals could mean for expats living in Germany.
