Topic: Hans Stark

Germany: The Unstoppable AfD? Let's talk with Hélène Miard-Delacroix and Hans Stark

The far right (AfD) has never been so strong in Germany since 1945. What analysis of the two victories in the AfD for fifteen days? Is she the first opposition force overseas? Can Friedrich Merz hold? What does the far left victory in Berlin also say? Let's talk with Hélène Miard-Delacroix, professor at the Sorbonne, specialist in contemporary Germany and author of "Heritage Enemies. A Franco-German dialogue" (Fayard, 2021) and Hans Stark, professor of contemporary German civilization at Sorbonne University.

22 Sept 2026, 13:52 UTC

Politics

Sorbonne Professor Hans Stark: 'Merz is in a very, very fragile situation'

The far right AfD claims it has become Germany’s new “people’s party”. The statement comes after AfD claimed its second regional election win in as many weeks, ramping up pressure on the poorly performing CDU and Chancellor Friedrich Merz. The far-left party also advanced, winning its third regional election thanks to its latest victory in Berlin. Perspective spoke to Hans Stark, professor in contemporary German civilization at Sorbonne University, who said that Merz is now in a very fragile situation, but that there is no obvious candidate to take over from him.

21 Sept 2026, 13:28 UTC