Anti-AfD protests sweep Germany amid debate over real support

The protests against the AfD in Germany, such as those seen in **Leipzig**, show a segment of society that rejects the party's rhetoric. However, the debate centres on whether these events reflect widespread discontent or are the work of specific groups.

## The debate after the demonstrations

The streets of **Leipzig** have become a stage for expressing rejection of the **AfD** (Alternative für Deutschland). Images of these protests, which present themselves as defenders of "diversity", have sparked a debate about their true reach and impact. The question that arises is whether the presence of demonstrators in the streets, with banners and chants, represents a majority sentiment or a niche mobilisation. The perception that "nobody would have to vote for the **AfD**" if Germany looked like these demonstrations suggests a direct criticism of the party's image and message.

## Who is protesting, and why?

The make-up of the demonstrators and their motivations are key points in this discussion. It has been pointed out that some of those interviewed at these demonstrations, such as those that took place after the election results in **Saxony-Anhalt**, have links to parties like the **Greens** and have worked in public broadcasters such as **RBB**. This raises questions about the authenticity of the protest and whether it represents genuine discontent among citizens or an orchestrated action by sectors with specific agendas. The narrative that society has "accepted the **AfD**" contrasts with the visibility of these protests.

## The AfD and social acceptance

The AfD's electoral success in some regions, such as the **44%** obtained in **Saxony-Anhalt**, is interpreted by some as a sign of social acceptance. The absence of mass protests after these results, according to this view, would indicate that the "enemy is demoralised" or that a significant part of society has internalised the AfD's presence in the political landscape. This calls into question the effectiveness of demonstrations as a gauge of public opinion against the rise of this party.