ABSTRACT

This chapter argues that a convergence of soft Euroscepticism and nativism is underway. By examining attitudes towards the EU in connection with xenophobia, it seeks to generate a deeper understanding of the current trajectory towards right-wing Euroscepticism that is permeating both Germany and Europe. The chapter sheds light on the tainting of mainstream political discourse with right-wing populist positions, a clear indication of the increasing impact of right-wing parties and movements on the political landscape. The chapter draws the implications of left-wing Eurosceptic positions being absorbed by the political right represented by Alternative for Germany (AfD) and incorporated into a nativist narrative of a nation under threat. Pointing also to the potential for hard Euroscepticism to take a strong hold in Germany, it addresses how the seeds for a hard Eurosceptic stance are already sown int.