The recent state elections in Saxony and Thuringia have been a cause for concern for Germany's major political parties. The SPD suffered catastrophic losses, with former Chancellor Gerhard Schröder blaming the party's Russia policy.
The AfD made significant gains, alarming business representatives and experts. The FDP reaffirmed its commitment to the traffic light coalition at the federal level despite heavy defeats.
In Brandenburg, the SPD is also worried about its election prospects. The rise of Sahra Wagenknecht's Alliance (BSW) has shaken up the political landscape, with the party becoming a potential kingmaker.
Wagenknecht's anti-establishment stance and focus on issues such as migration have resonated with voters. However, her party's positions on foreign policy and its calls for a diplomatic initiative with Russia have raised eyebrows.
The state elections have highlighted the challenges facing Germany's democracy and the need for political parties to address the concerns of voters. Minderheitsregierungen (minority governments) and unconventional coalitions may become the new norm in German politics.
The rise of the AfD and the decline of the SPD have raised questions about the future direction of the country.
