The Wolves Are Coming Back

The wolves are returning to Germany, while German politics are shifting to the right. The rising nationalist Alternative for Germany (AfD) draw much of their support from places that have been referred to as the 'post-traumatic places' in East Germany, structured by realities of disownment, disenfranchisement, and a lack of democratic infrastructure. While nationalist parties are on the rise everywhere in Europe, this is a case study of East German fringe political movements, splinter parties, and agitation against both migrants and wolves. The authors move beyond easy stereotypes and strive to unravel the deep story of why East German politics is shifting to the right. The returning wolves serve both as metaphor and analytical tool to further an understanding of the logics and sentiments that underlie the rise of the right in East German politics.