The Sahra Wagenknecht Alliance (BSW) is preparing for its first federal election in February 2025, following a successful performance in the eastern German state elections. However, the party faces challenges, including low support in western regions and the need to surpass the 5% threshold in national polls. The BSW’s manifesto positions it as a peace party opposing arms buildups, while it advocates for stricter immigration policies, distinguishing itself from its predecessor, the Left Party. The electoral results will crucially impact the party’s future in German politics.
The recent party conference in Bonn marked a pivotal moment for the Sahra Wagenknecht Alliance (BSW) as it prepares for its inaugural federal election in February 2025. Having been founded in January 2024, the BSW achieved notable success in last September’s eastern German elections, securing between 12% to 16% of votes and surpassing the socialist Left Party in several regions. Nonetheless, Wagenknecht expresses concern about the party’s ability to clear the 5% electoral threshold due to its limited support in western Germany, where its backing is significantly lower.
The BSW’s performance in the European elections in June further highlighted regional disparities in its support, as it garnered 6.2% nationally, with eastern states showing higher percentages between 13% to 16%. Conversely, western states saw support levels fall below 5%. Current opinion polls indicate that the BSW is on the brink of this critical 5% threshold, underscoring their precarious position ahead of the upcoming Bundestag elections.
At the Bonn conference, Wagenknecht attributed the BSW’s subpar polling to insufficient media coverage, labeling this situation as “undemocratic.” However, scrutiny of political talk shows reveals that she was a prominent guest in 2024, being the most featured politician on public broadcasters ARD and ZDF. Despite these challenges, Wagenknecht encouraged party members to remain optimistic, emphasizing the young party’s potential amidst a campaign where many voters are still undecided.
The newly revealed manifesto portrays the BSW as the sole “peace party” in the Bundestag—vehemently opposing arms buildups and arms supplies to conflict zones. This stance contrasts sharply with that of the socialist Left Party, which the BSW members have left due to disagreements over asylum and immigration policies. The BSW is advocating for stricter asylum measures including conducting procedures in safe third countries and deporting criminal refugees.
On immigration, the BSW’s rhetoric echoes elements found in other political parties, including the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD). Their electoral program criticizes the “uncontrolled influx of people” for supposedly contributing to crime and violence. The BSW asserts a need for a different approach to immigration and highlights the necessity for a policy grounded in law and order.
Addressing the situation regarding Ukraine, the BSW calls for an immediate ceasefire, echoing views similar to those of the Left Party. Wagenknecht emphasizes the importance of negotiating peace rather than preparing for war in today’s nuclear age, calling for a return to diplomatic solutions. Regarding current geopolitical tensions, the BSW has condemned Israel’s military actions following the Hamas attacks, calling the conflict a significant humanitarian concern.
The BSW vehemently opposes increasing military expenditure, asserting that claims of German military budgets being “cut to the bone” are misleading. The party points out that military spending has ballooned significantly since 2014, achieving NATO’s target of 2% of economic output. The BSW’s objectives include advocating for disarmament and a reevaluation of Germany’s military commitments, which would represent a significant pivot for the party and its founder, Sahra Wagenknecht.
Ultimately, if the BSW fails to win a place in the Bundestag, it would be a personal setback for Wagenknecht. Conversely, the Left Party might secure representation within the Bundestag even if they do not meet the 5% threshold, provided they capture three constituency seats similarly to their previous success in 2021. As the conference closed, Wagenknecht urged her delegates to actively engage in the campaign ahead, expressing confidence in achieving electoral success.
The Sahra Wagenknecht Alliance (BSW), formed in early 2024, emerged from a faction of the socialist Left Party, dissatisfied with its direction. The party aims to carve a distinct identity in German politics, especially concerning issues like peace, military spending, and immigration policies. With its debut in the federal election slated for February 2025, the BSW seeks to establish a foothold in both eastern and western Germany, an ambitious task given the regional divides in voter support. Their manifesto emphasizes a commitment to peace and stricter immigration controls, differentiating them from both the Left Party and the mainstream parties in Germany.
The upcoming federal elections present a significant opportunity and challenge for the Sahra Wagenknecht Alliance. With varying levels of support across Germany, the BSW’s success hinges on its ability to appeal beyond its established base in the east. Sahra Wagenknecht’s leadership and the party’s clear stance on critical issues such as peace and immigration will be pivotal in determining their electoral fate. Their first test in February 2025 will reveal whether the party can solidify its presence in the Bundestag or face the reality of political obscurity.
Original Source: www.dw.com
