Wybory w Niemczech zmieniły mapę – Romów nie można wymazać

Anti-Roma rhetoric has long simmered in German politics. Now, emboldened by electoral gains, the far right has pushed its narratives into mainstream discourse. If current trends continue, the consequences could be severe: increased policing, backing cuts for civilian society, and increasing hostility toward minorities are no longer off the table. While these risks are not yet imminent, mainstream parties stay under constant force from a strong far-right opposition. Whether Roma stay part of Germany’s future depends on how we now respond.

In Germany’s fresh political order, number rights are an afterthought

The only realistic governing option is simply a coalition between the Christian Democrats (CDU/CSU) and the Social Democrats (SPD), with a coalition agreement ready to be voted on by the organization base. This “grand coalition” is trying to frame itself as a stabilizing force, but in reality, it will prioritize economical pragmatism over social justice, driven by the request to show fast results on any key concerns among their voters. Roma, along with another minorities, hazard becoming invisible in policy discussions.

The CDU/CSU has shifted rightward on migration, security, and civilian society oversight. Before the election, CDU leaders questioned the legitimacy of civilian society organizations that challenge state policies. In February, the party’s General Secretary Carsten Linnemann called for an end to payer backing for activist groups deemed besides “political”. Under a CDU-led government, restrictions on civilian society, which plays a crucial function in holding political elites accountable, could be justified under the banner of “neutrality” and “security”.

Meanwhile, the SPD, having lost ground to both the far right and conservatives, so far has not pushed back aggressively against restrictive policies, arguably to avoid further losses within its erstwhile core constituencies. The coalition agreement besides includes tougher stances on migration and integration. For Roma and others, this means less protections, less resources, and greater political isolation. Even the Greens and the Left organization – positioned in the opposition with limited power to influence government – will face an uphill conflict advocating for number rights in an environment dominated by debates on migration, security, and geopolitical concerns.

What this means for Roma

The far right has already won the conflict for control of the narrative. The question now is whether they will be able to translate this into policy.

One immediate concern is expanded policing and surveillance in number communities. Roma are already disproportionately targeted by law enforcement, and this will likely escalate as the government seeks to task a “law and order” image. past has shown that erstwhile nationalist forces gain influence, Roma are among the first to be scapegoated.

Another pressing issue is the possible for deportations on a larger scale. Roma from the Balkans, many of whom have lived in Germany for decades, are peculiarly vulnerable. While removals may not happen overnight, policies restricting residency rights and tightening asylum laws – both of which align with CDU leader Friedrich Merz’s hardline stance on migration – could force thousands into legal limbo. In Hungary and France, akin tactics have been utilized to push Roma out under the guise of “maintaining social order”.

Beyond these immediate threats, civilian rights protections are at risk. Anti-discrimination laws and hard-won rights could be diluted, deprioritized or diminished in significance. Meanwhile, cultural institutions and education initiatives that preserve Roma identity could face budget cuts, pushing Roma further into political and social obscurity.

Our past must be reclaimed, not erased

Yet Roma have always resisted erasure. Defending civilian society is crucial, as attacks on civilian society are not just bureaucratic adjustments but deliberate attempts to silence those who challenge irresponsible political elites and oligarchs working for the few, not the many. Political mobilization is equally essential – Roma and their allies must decision beyond passive voting and become candidates, organizers and decision-makers. At the same time, the fight for historical designation must continue. Roma have been part of Germany for over six centuries, yet their contributions stay unrecognized. From skilled artisans in the 15th century to labourers in the post-war economical boom, Roma have played an integral function in shaping Germany’s success. This past must be reclaimed, not erased.

Solidarity across communities is essential if we want to push back against a hardline agenda. The targeting of Roma has never been an isolated event but is always a informing sign for all marginalized groups. If exclusionary policies take hold, they will yet grow to migrants, refugees and another minorities. The coming months will specify the next decade for Roma and many another groups in Germany. Waiting for change from above is no longer an option. opposition must come from within our communities – through advocacy, legal challenges and direct engagement with the political process.

This election has shown that the far right’s influence is no longer confined to the fringes. They are investigating the limits of their power, and if they are not met with resistance, they will push further. The choice is clear: we fight, or we disappear.

Mensur Haliti is the vice president for democracy and network improvement at the Roma Foundation for Europe.

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