Charlotte Knobloch, a prominent Jewish community leader and Holocaust survivor who survived the Nazi era by posing as the daughter of non-Jewish farmers, has spoken out sharply about the state of German democracy. In an interview with DW, she described the current moment in Germany as "a very dangerous situation," expressing shock at the AfD's victory in Saxony-Anhalt's state election. Her words carry particular weight given her personal history and her decades of public advocacy. For expats, immigrants, and members of minority communities living in Germany, this warning is a signal worth taking seriously.
Charlotte Knobloch is one of Germany's most respected voices on the topics of antisemitism, democracy, and the memory of the Holocaust. She survived the Holocaust by hiding her Jewish identity — a fact that gives her perspective on political extremism a gravity that few others can claim. Her decision to speak publicly and urgently following the AfD's result in Saxony-Anhalt reflects a level of alarm that goes beyond routine political commentary.
When a figure of her standing describes the current situation as "very dangerous," it is not political hyperbole — it is a considered warning from someone who has witnessed first-hand what the erosion of democratic norms can lead to. Her message is aimed at all of German society, but it resonates especially for those who feel most vulnerable to the consequences of rising far-right political power.
The AfD — Alternative für Deutschland — is a nationalist, far-right party that has made immigration restriction and opposition to multiculturalism central to its platform. Its victory in Saxony-Anhalt's state election is part of a broader pattern of growing electoral support, particularly in eastern German states. For immigrants, refugees, people of colour, Jewish communities, and other minorities living in Germany, the party's rise is a source of genuine concern.
The AfD has consistently pushed for stricter immigration controls, reductions in asylum protections, and policies that many critics say foster a climate of hostility toward people perceived as "foreign." While electoral success does not automatically translate into policy changes — particularly at the federal level — it does shift the political discourse and can embolden those who hold discriminatory views.
For expats and immigrants, it is worth being aware that the political climate in different German states can vary considerably. Saxony-Anhalt, like several other eastern states, has seen stronger AfD support than western Germany.
Living in a country where far-right politics is gaining ground can feel unsettling, especially for those whose presence in Germany is tied to their legal status or who belong to groups targeted by nationalist rhetoric. It is important to stay informed, know your rights, and be aware of the organisations that exist to support you.
If you experience discrimination or a hate incident, you do not have to face it alone. Organisations such as the Antidiskriminierungsstelle des Bundes (Federal Anti-Discrimination Agency) exist specifically to support people in these situations. Community organisations, legal aid groups, and civil society networks across Germany also offer support — look up their official contact details directly for the most current information.
It is also worth remembering that a large part of German society — civil society organisations, political parties, media, and ordinary citizens — actively opposes the far right and works to uphold democratic values and the rights of minorities.
State election results do not directly change federal immigration law or your individual legal status. Residence permits, visas, and asylum decisions are governed by federal law administered through bodies such as BAMF and the Ausländerbehörde. However, political shifts can influence policy over time. If you have specific concerns about your status, consult a qualified immigration lawyer or contact your Ausländerbehörde.
The Antidiskriminierungsstelle des Bundes (Federal Anti-Discrimination Agency) is the main federal body for reporting and seeking advice on discrimination. Several state-level and community organisations also provide support. Search for their official websites directly to find current contact details and guidance tailored to your situation.
Charlotte Knobloch's warning is a reminder that the health of German democracy is not an abstract concern — it has real implications for the daily lives of minorities, immigrants, and expats living here. Stay informed about political developments, know the organisations that can support you if needed, and engage with your local community. Germany has strong legal protections against discrimination, and many institutions and citizens are committed to upholding them. Awareness and connection are your best tools.
Source: dw_english
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