In the upcoming elections in Brandenburg, Germany, the far-right Alternative for Deutschland (AFD) party is making headlines with its use of AI-generated videos in its campaign. These ads, which critics label as racist, aim to stir public fears about immigration and its supposed dangers.
The campaign begins with a provocative question: “You decide whether your hometown keeps its weekly market or becomes overrun by drug dealers.” This stark choice sets a dramatic tone, suggesting that increased immigration could lead to crime and a decline in living standards. The visuals depict Germans in an idealized manner—blond hair, strong features—while immigrants are portrayed negatively, often shown in shadowy settings and engaging in criminal activities. Critics have drawn comparisons to Nazi propaganda, emphasizing the harmful stereotypes being promoted.
Rene Springer, the AFD's chairman in Brandenburg, asserts that rising immigration correlates with increased crime rates. He claims that East Germany has been sheltered from these issues, but warns that this safety is now at risk. This strategy of creating an “us versus them” narrative is common among populist parties globally, seeking to tap into public fears and anxieties.
Despite the ads’ low production quality—marked by glitches and a lack of emotional depth—they have gained significant traction on social media, attracting hundreds of thousands of views. This raises questions about the effectiveness of using AI in political advertising, particularly when it comes to spreading divisive messages.
Perhaps the most concerning aspect of this campaign is the apparent lack of regulatory oversight. Germany has strict laws against racial discrimination, especially for political parties. However, when journalists reached out to various government offices, no clear authority was identified to oversee the content of these ads. This regulatory gap allows far-right parties to exploit AI technology without facing immediate consequences.
As the AFD continues to push its controversial messages through AI-generated content, the implications of this approach may extend beyond Germany, potentially impacting political discourse in other countries. The situation underscores the urgent need for regulations to ensure ethical practices in political advertising and to protect the integrity of democratic processes.
As the elections approach, the use of AI in political campaigns poses new challenges and raises critical questions about the future of political communication in an increasingly digital world.