International Journal of

Arts , Humanities & Social Science

ISSN 2693-2547 (Print) , ISSN 2693-2555 (Online)
DOI: 10.56734/ijahss
On The Success and Failure of The German National Democratic Party’s “Eastward” Strategy in The VOIGT ERA

Abstract


Due to development obstacles in the western region of Germany, after taking office in 1996, Voigt adopted the “eastward” strategy, using the eastern region as a breakthrough point. The National Democratic Party of Germany (NPD) rapidly expanded its membership by opening its doors to far-right organizations, attracted a large number of young activists through effective propaganda and mobilization, and enhanced the activism and organizing ability of its cadres through a series of large-scale activities. Relying on the dense grass-roots organization, the NPD has carried out meticulous community work, closely connected with voters, and successfully built up an image of being a pro-people and “normal party”, which has laid a solid foundation for its success in the elections of the local councils and the state parliaments. However, by deploying a large number of its cadres and core organization in the East, where its electoral successes have almost invariably been achieved, the NPD has gradually degenerated into a “regional party” and an “eastern party”.