The Alternative for Germany (AfD) party's electoral success in Saxony-Anhalt has sent ripples of anxiety through immigrant communities in eastern Germany — particularly among people of Turkish origin. According to a report by DW, workers and business owners are now asking themselves whether they should leave increasingly AfD-friendly regions for the more welcoming atmosphere of western German states. For any immigrant or expat living in the east, this story raises questions that go well beyond politics: questions about safety, belonging, business viability, and long-term stability.
The AfD's win in Saxony-Anhalt is part of a broader trend of the party performing strongly in eastern German federal states. For immigrant communities — many of whom have built lives, businesses, and families in these regions over decades — electoral results like this one feed into a growing sense of unease.
People of Turkish origin are among the longest-established immigrant communities in Germany, with roots going back to the guest worker era. Yet DW's reporting shows that even settled, well-integrated residents are now reconsidering their futures in AfD-dominated regions. The anxiety is not abstract: it is about everyday interactions, the business environment, and the question of whether the local political climate will translate into tangible changes in how immigrants are treated.
One of the most concrete responses reported is the consideration — and in some cases the decision — to relocate from eastern to western Germany. For workers, this may mean seeking employment in cities with larger, more diverse immigrant communities. For business owners, it involves weighing customer relationships, property investments, and community ties against the perception of a less hostile environment elsewhere.
Moving within Germany is legally straightforward for most residents — you do not need a new Aufenthaltstitel simply because you change your federal state. However, you will need to complete a new Anmeldung (registration) at your new address, and you should notify your Ausländerbehörde of the change. If your residence permit is tied to a specific employer or circumstance, check with your Ausländerbehörde or an immigration lawyer before making any move.
If you are living in a region where AfD support is high, you are not alone in feeling uncertain. Community organisations, anti-discrimination bodies, and local Beratungsstellen (advice centres) have noted an increase in people seeking support and information.
It is worth knowing that your legal rights as a resident in Germany do not vary by federal state in most respects — you are protected by federal law regardless of which party governs locally. However, local political attitudes can influence the social environment, public services, and the overall quality of daily life in ways that are harder to measure but very real.
If you are experiencing discrimination or harassment, document incidents and contact a local anti-discrimination organisation. The Antidiskriminierungsstelle des Bundes (Federal Anti-Discrimination Agency) is a starting point — look up their official contact details for guidance.
In most cases, no — your existing Aufenthaltstitel remains valid across Germany. However, you must register your new address (Anmeldung) and inform your Ausländerbehörde. If your permit has specific conditions tied to a location or employer, speak to your Ausländerbehörde or an immigration lawyer before relocating.
Federal immigration law is set at the national level, not by state governments. Local or state election results do not directly alter your residence permit or legal status. However, for specific questions about how any policy changes might affect you personally, consult a qualified immigration lawyer or your Ausländerbehörde.
Reach out to local anti-discrimination advice centres (Beratungsstellen) in your city or region. The Antidiskriminierungsstelle des Bundes can also point you toward relevant support — search for their official website for contact details.
The anxiety felt by Turkish and other immigrant communities in eastern Germany following the AfD's Saxony-Anhalt win is a real and understandable response to a shifting political landscape. Whether you choose to stay and build community resilience or consider relocating to another part of Germany, the most important thing is to make informed decisions based on reliable information and, where needed, professional advice.
Stay connected to community networks, follow trustworthy news sources, and do not hesitate to seek legal guidance if you have specific questions about your situation.
Source: DW English
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