Greens against the West

West Germany’s formerly stable parliamentary democracy, long thought to be developing toward a two-party system, has in the last few years witnessed the entry of the Greens, a radical association of disparate elements—environmentalism, feminism, pacifism, and general discontent. Originating from local “Citizens’ Initiatives” that addressed grass-roots issues, they rode to power on a wave of anti-Americanism and social despair, overcoming the barriers designed to keep small parties from gaining political influence. After notable successes in state elections, the Greens gained over 5 per cent of the vote in the 1983 federal elections and entered the Bundestag. Contrary to widely held expectations, the Greens have shown considerable staying power. Recent data from the Allensbach Institute strongly suggest that they will continue to do well.

The Greens received widespread coverage in the American media during the debates—and the occasionally violent protests—over missile deployment. Attention has faded since then, as a conservative government has seemed to be in firm command. But now that the governing coalition is crumbling, and the leftist opposition is likely to become the center of attention once again, it is only appropriate to take a new look at the German Left. It is a force to be reckoned with.

About the Author

Michael Greve

Michael Greve is a professor at George Mason University’s Antonin Scalia Law School.

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West Germany’s formerly stable parliamentary democracy, long thought to be developing toward a two-party system, has in the last few years witnessed the entry of the Greens, a radical association of disparate elements—environmentalism, feminism, pacifism, and general discontent. Originating from local “Citizens’ Initiatives” that addressed grass-roots issues, they rode to power on a wave of anti-Americanism and social despair, overcoming the barriers designed to keep small parties from gaining political influence. After notable successes in state elections, the Greens gained over 5 per cent of the vote in the 1983 federal elections and entered the Bundestag. Contrary to widely held expectations, the Greens have shown considerable staying power. Recent data from the Allensbach Institute strongly suggest that they will continue to do well.

The Greens received widespread coverage in the American media during the debates—and the occasionally violent protests—over missile deployment. Attention has faded since then, as a conservative government has seemed to be in firm command. But now that the governing coalition is crumbling, and the leftist opposition is likely to become the center of attention once again, it is only appropriate to take a new look at the German Left. It is a force to be reckoned with.