Like many other nations, Germany is preparing for a critical election, and one party in particular is giving everyone great cause for alarm: the Alternative für Deutschland (AfD). The AfD is a Euroskeptical, nationalist, and far-right party that is strongly anti-immigration, especially from Muslim countries. Through its growing prominence, the AfD may be able to implement radical policy changes that might reshape Germany's future.

Gen Z must pay close attention to this election because the policies of the AfD would drastically restrict immigration, social freedoms, and international cooperation. The party's stance is symptomatic of international far-right movements, which are a concern for extremism, nationalism, and potential threats to democracy. If history has shown us anything, it's that ignoring such political shifts can have lasting consequences.

Key Issues for Gen Z in Germany

AfD's potential victory would bring radical changes impacting Gen Z directly in Germany, particularly in education, jobs, climate policy, and inclusion. Already, the party opposed an increase in public spending on education, which could lead to a reduction in funding for universities, fewer scholarships, and limited apprenticeships, further complicating young people's access to higher education and stable jobs.

Furthermore, their climate skepticism and opposition to green policies could delay Germany's achievements in climate change and ecological sustainability—a people's movement well-liked among young people, including activists on Fridays for Future.

On the social plane, AfD's hardline anti-immigration policy and opposition to LGBTQ+ and gender rights could polarize society further and make it even more exclusionary, excluding marginal groups from protection and opportunities. But isn’t it ironic that one of the party’s leaders, Alice Weidel, is in a same-[censored] relationship while advocating for policies that could harm LGBTQ+ people? Such reforms can have long-term consequences on the destiny of Gen Z, shaping the labor market, environmental policies, and the German society's tolerance in general.

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Political Engagement & Future Participation

Gen Z is the most significant group to decide the election. So far, the AfD has gained a lot of popularity among young male Gen Z voters. Until February 24, 2025, the result of the German election on Sunday had the AfD lose, but because it made unprecedented gains, this could mean that in the upcoming election, the AfD could steal the win.

But it is important to remain informed because people in the United States are already witnessing the change under Donald Trump's administration and they are highly infuriated. If the Gen Z generation in Germany is not informed, repetition would happen again between Germany and the United States. Donald Trump would not have been elected if people were made aware of his regulations and what they are made of.

For example, when people heard about the tariffs he was proposing, people were in favor of it even though they do not understand what tariffs are and how tariffs are imposed. And now because Trump wants to implement those tariffs, people are afraid that prices will increase, which will lead to high grocery bills. So it is imperative to be informed when being a part of the democratic process.

What Comes Next?

If AfD were to come to power, Germany would probably see stricter immigration controls, especially against Muslim countries. The party would also run on lower taxation and deregulation, which would widen the rich-poor divide. On climate, AfD's skepticism would slow down Germany's green energy initiative.

Socially, the AfD would roll back LGBTQ+ rights, gender equality, and freedom of speech protections, deepening fault lines in society. These developments can greatly affect the future of Germany, so it is important that Gen Z remain well-informed and engaged.

If AfD were to win Gen Z can navigate and counter these changes by being well-informed and actively participating in the political process. Voting, protesting, and backing organizations that share their values are strong means of being heard. By promoting inclusive policies and environmental action, Gen Z can counter the regressive policies that could arise under AfD rule. Remaining attached to causes such as Fridays for Future and LGBTQ+ rights can assist in guaranteeing their generation's agenda is heard in the future.

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Conclusion

The AfD's rise in Germany's election is a demonstration of political action's relevancy to Gen Z. With future shifts in immigration, climate, and social policy, youth need to be educated and mobilized to preserve their values. Through voting, protesting, and advocating for that which they stand, Gen Z can shape their future and defend the inclusive and sustainable world they envision. Civic engagement is crucial—being watchful and active is the best way of addressing the issues that the future holds.