As Germany approaches its elections, a surge of misinformation is spreading on social media, particularly concerning the Alternative for Germany (AfD) party. Controversy arose over an AfD poster accused of containing Nazi symbols, which was debunked as a stock image. Additionally, misleading AI-generated content and manipulated images have fueled tensions. Politicians have condemned these false narratives, emphasizing the need for informed voting as the election date nears.
Upcoming Elections in Germany: A Wave of Misinformation
As Germany gears up for elections in just a few weeks, misinformation regarding political figures and parties is making waves across social media platforms. One particular incident that has ignited controversy involves an election poster from the Alternative for Germany (AfD) party.
Konstantin von Notz, the deputy faction leader of the Greens in the Bundestag, raised eyebrows with a post on platform X questioning the authenticity of the AfD’s poster. The poster features a striking illustration of an airplane, complete with symbols resembling lightning bolts positioned in front of each engine.
Debunking the Misleading Claims
Claims circulating online suggest that these symbols are not arbitrary but are, in fact, “Siegrunen,” associated with the Nazi Schutzstaffel (SS). A Reddit user even labeled the image, asserting that the AfD had embedded SS symbols into their “remigration” campaign poster.
While the AfD poster is genuine, various images from AfD campaign stands confirm its authenticity. However, the assertion that the party deliberately included these symbols is unfounded. A reverse image search reveals that the illustration originates from a stock photo available through Getty Images, titled “Passenger airplane taking off from runway – vector illustration.” The symbols were not a deliberate addition by the AfD; they are an inherent part of the stock image.
When approached for comment regarding the allegations and whether they had considered the implications of the symbols while selecting the illustration, the AfD party did not respond.
As the Bundestag elections draw near, a surge of false narratives aims to sway public opinion and influence political dynamics.
AI Videos and Misleading Images Fuel Controversy
In another instance, an AI-generated advertisement from AfD Brandenburg stirred significant attention. Shared through the official AfD Brandenburg channel, the video features SPD Health Minister Karl Lauterbach being escorted by police officers, accompanied by a caption that calls for accountability from politicians who supposedly lead the country astray. The video also perpetuates racial stereotypes.
Lauterbach condemned the video on X, stating that such AI-generated content fuels hatred in society. He emphasized that portraying political opponents as criminals can escalate to physical violence, urging that this incitement must not be normalized.
Additionally, a widely circulated photo depicting a kindergarten group with a policewoman was misrepresented by the AfD Mayen-Koblenz Facebook page, claiming it illustrated a need for police protection following a recent knife attack. However, the Lower Franconia police clarified that the image simply captured a kindergarten’s visit to their station, where children learned about safety and traffic rules.
Another misleading graphic circulating claims that Federal President Frank-Walter Steinmeier threatened to annul the elections if right-wing parties succeed. This assertion is false, as confirmed by fact-checkers. Steinmeier’s actual remarks during his speech on December 27 emphasized the importance of fair elections, denouncing external influences and encouraging eligible voters to participate in the democratic process without any mention of annulment.
As misinformation continues to spread, it’s crucial for voters to remain informed and critically assess the information circulating in the lead-up to the elections.