Kurt Beck, the former chairman of the Social Democratic Party of Germany (SPD), expressed concern about the current state of democracy in Germany. In an interview with the newspapers of the Funke media group, he said he sees many similarities to the Weimar Republic in the current political situation. Beck emphasized that recent developments remind him of a critical phase in the decline of a democracy.
With the upcoming state elections in Saxony-Anhalt, Berlin, and Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania in September, Beck voiced his concern about the growing support for the Alternative for Germany (AfD). He noted that none of the established democratic parties have yet found a solution to counter the AfD’s rising influence. Beck warned that many citizens appear susceptible to the appeal of this right-wing populist party.
Beck called on his party to actively address concerns about democracy and to initiate a discussion about its value. He pointed out that it is important to name the dangers posed by extreme political positions, especially from the right, which he considers far more threatening. Beck sees this debate as an opportunity for the SPD to mobilize people and encourage political participation.
EuroPulse reported on June 14, 2026, about criticism from Left Party politician Becker regarding Bundeswehr personnel planning, which also highlights challenges in German politics. [https://europulse.today/bundeswehr-personalplanung-becker-kritik/]
Source: www.zeit.de
