Germany's AfD achieved a large number of votes in February 2025 elections. The far-right party thus became the country's second party. This marks the first time since World War Two that a far-right party has performed so well in Germany.

Alice Weidel leads the AfD. She is openly lesbian. Her party takes a hard line against migration and Berlin's government. The AfD also wants America to withdraw troops from Germany.

Weidel heads a movement that critics say resembles extremism in many ways. Yet she advocates for equal rights for homosexuals. This contrast stands out: gay rights and far-right policies normally don't go together in Europe.

The AfD grew mainly because many citizens are unhappy with the economy and migration. However, experts warn about the risks of this party in power.