Racism in Germany’s Political Environment ...
Kelvin Christian Berger
31/08/2026
This paper examines differences in the public perception of Middle Eastern and Ukrainian refugees in Germany. Furthermore, this essay analyzes how these refugee groups contribute to domestic support for the conservative AfD party in Frankfurt am Main and Leipzig. By utilizing a mixed-methods approach, the study combines quantitative data on refugee inflows and federal election results with a qualitative analysis of media reporting and statements by politicians. This framework emphasizes the role of local context, historical migration experience, and domestic responses in shaping changing political policies on migration. The findings suggest that the above-mentioned refugee groups contributed to increased support for the controversial and conservative AfD party, although they were not the sole drivers of the improved electoral results. In Frankfurt, a diverse city with established integration structures, political shifts were mitigated despite large inflows of refugees in 2015 and 2016. Nonetheless, the AfD gained traction. In Leipzig, however, rapid demographic change coincided more strongly with gains for the AfD and greater polarization. Notably, residents’ reactions varied depending on the refugees’ origin. While Middle Eastern refugees were confronted with hostile reactions, especially those arriving in later waves, Ukrainians were welcomed with greater understanding and hospitality. Therefore, the comparison further highlights the importance of perceived origin and legal status.