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Germany in the Woes of Hostile Influence
Author: Ari Ben Am
Germany is facing a growing threat from foreign interference, particularly from Russian influence operations. This meddling has exacerbated the rise of extremist political parties, including the far-right AfD and far-left BsW, both of which have gained notable electoral success. These parties are not just gaining support due to economic disparity or lingering GDR sentiments but are also fueled by covert disinformation campaigns. Russian-backed networks like Doppelganger and Chinese influence operations, such as Spamouflage, have leveraged online platforms to manipulate public opinion and deepen societal divisions.
Germany's reliance on Russian energy and its geopolitical importance make it a prime target for foreign influence aimed at weakening ties with the West, promoting societal instability, and diminishing support for Ukraine. Beyond just fake online accounts and disinformation websites, these operations involve real-world actors who coordinate with foreign agents to shape policy and disrupt governmental actions, like delaying aid to Ukraine.
While Western governments and tech companies are working to combat these inauthentic networks, the fight remains a challenge. With federal elections looming in 2025, the stakes are high for Germany, and the need for a comprehensive, proactive strategy to counteract foreign interference is more pressing than ever.