Feminist Alice Schwarzer suggests that Alice Weidel, leader of the Alternative for Germany (AfD), could have an unexpectedly positive effect – encouraging women – should she grow Chancellor, despite political disagreements. Schwarzer also sharply criticized Green Party politician Annalena Baerbock.
A Shift in Political Strategy?
In a discussion with Markus Feldenkirchen of “Spiegel,” Schwarzer stated, “It would probably also have the effect, despite everything, of being encouraging for women.” However, she simultaneously cautioned against a strengthening of the AfD. Schwarzer previously criticized the AfD but now believes the “firewall” against the party in the 2029 federal elections is “unrealistic.”
Schwarzer argued that it would be more constructive to encourage the right-conservative elements within the AfD to combat the party’s explicitly far-right elements. She also suggested that the established parties – the CDU, SPD, and Greens – should ask voters who have switched to the AfD why they made that choice, and what failings prompted the shift.
Criticism of Baerbock’s Foreign Policy
Schwarzer leveled strong criticism at Annalena Baerbock, stating that the former Foreign Minister’s announced feminist foreign policy “didn’t work at all.” According to Schwarzer, Baerbock “completely failed” and “left women in the lurch in Iran, in Afghanistan and so on,” acting as a “master of words and not of deeds.”
Merkel as a Role Model
In contrast, Schwarzer explicitly praised former Chancellor Angela Merkel as a role model for young women, stating Merkel achieved “enormously” much, even unintentionally, as an example for others.
Frequently Asked Questions
What did Alice Schwarzer say about Alice Weidel?
Alice Schwarzer said that a potential Chancellorship of Alice Weidel could have an encouraging effect for women, despite political differences.
What criticism did Schwarzer level at Annalena Baerbock?
Schwarzer criticized Annalena Baerbock’s feminist foreign policy, stating it had “completely failed” and left women in difficult situations in countries like Iran and Afghanistan.
What did Schwarzer say about the AfD and other parties?
Schwarzer believes the “firewall” against the AfD is unrealistic and that established parties should try to understand why voters are switching to the AfD.
Given these shifting political perspectives, how might traditional party strategies need to evolve to address the concerns of voters who are now considering the AfD?
