2017 is an important year for European democracy. Elections will take place in several EU countries, including France, Germany, the Netherlands, and the Czech Republic. Given the rise of nationalist, anti-immigration parties across the continent (not to mention the shock Brexit and Trump votes in 2016), should Europe prepare itself for a populist upsurge?
Will the Alternative for Germany (AfD) party make it into the national parliament? Why do people vote for the AfD? Will Chancellor Angela Merkel be able to hang on for another term in office? Or will her centre-left rival, Martin Schulz, be able to unseat her?
Debating Europe has been asking Europeans to share their thoughts and comments in a series of online debates titled ‘Elections 2017 – Germany’. We have been approaching politicians, economists, academics, and activists to respond to the comments of our audience, and to engage them in a debate.
Join the debates!