In Germany, the political mood is changing, and many migrants now feel both uncertain and hopeful about the future. Mohammad Azmouz, a Syrian barber living in Berlin, shared that casting his first vote at 57 was a powerful experience. Yet, he worries about the growing support for the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party. “Why this hatred? We work and contribute to society. We are not a burden, and we love the German people,” he said.
The rise of the AfD has stirred strong feelings among Germany’s migrant community. This issue was a major topic in the recent election, as debates over asylum policy led the conservatives and the AfD to secure the top two positions. Many migrants, like Azmouz, are caught between their hope for a fair future and their fear of growing hostility. Amid a difficult economic climate, he chose to vote for the far-left Die Linke party. He hopes that a new government will work for social justice and support low-income families. “We miss the days when Chancellor Merkel was in charge. Now, everything is expensive, and it feels like we can never catch up,” he said.
Financial worries are common among migrants in Germany. A recent study showed that 63.4% of migrants are very concerned about money, compared to 46.7% of non-migrants. With over seven million Germans with an immigrant background now eligible to vote, many of them former refugees, the political landscape is changing. Some, like Alaa Eddin Mhanna, a Syrian plant operator near Berlin, said that even though he once voted for the Social Democrats (SPD), he now feels that no party truly represents him. He worries about the economy and the rising support for the AfD, fearing that their influence might lead to tougher policies and more division.
Interestingly, not all migrants share the same view. A Jordanian barber, who is not yet a voting citizen, sees the rise of the AfD as a chance to shake up the system. He supports stricter measures on violent offenders and favors limitations on family reunification for refugees. “If there were an AfD party in my country, I would vote for it,” he said.
Despite these differences, many migrants are united in their hope for a better future. Mohammad Azmouz expressed his wish that Germany’s next leader, Friedrich Merz, will lead the country toward prosperity. “We hope that the party in power will show mercy on everyone—refugees and all citizens alike,” he said.
As Germany continues to shift right, the voices of migrants reveal both fear and hope. They face a future where economic challenges and political changes could alter their lives, but many remain determined to contribute to society and build a better future.