In Germany's February 2025 federal election, what percentage of the vote did the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party receive?

In Germany's federal election held in February 2025, the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party garnered 20.8% of the vote. This significant result marked a substantial increase in their electoral performance, effectively doubling their vote share from the 10.4% they received in the 2021 federal election. The election, a snap general election held on February 23, 2025, followed the collapse of the previous governing coalition, bringing heightened attention to issues like immigration and the economy.

The AfD's rise to become the second-largest party in the Bundestag reflects a notable shift in the German political landscape. Founded in 2013 primarily as a Eurosceptic party, the AfD has evolved into a far-right, national conservative, and populist force, strongly advocating against immigration and challenging mainstream political consensus. Their platform, which also includes skepticism towards climate change measures, has resonated with a segment of the electorate expressing dissatisfaction with traditional parties and concerns over national identity and economic stability.

This electoral outcome highlights the party's growing influence, particularly in eastern Germany where they often achieve their strongest results, partly due to historical economic disparities and a different political culture. Despite their increased popular support, mainstream parties in Germany have largely maintained a "firewall," refusing to form coalitions with the AfD due to its extremist tendencies and nationalist policies. This stance means that while the AfD has become a major parliamentary force, its direct path to government remains blocked, yet its electoral strength is poised to continue shaping political discourse and coalition formations in Germany.