Germany’s election has redrawn the map – Roma must not be erased 

International Romani Day on April 8th 2025 in Frankfurt am Main. Photo: Mayoral office of Frankfurt am Main / Christes

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, funding cuts for civil society, and growing hostility toward minorities are no longer off the table. While these risks are not yet imminent, mainstream parties remain under constant pressure from a strong far-right opposition. Whether Roma remain part of Germany’s future depends on how we now respond. 

In Germany’s new political order, minority rights are an afterthought 

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

The CDU/CSU has shifted rightward on migration, security, and civil society oversight. Before the election, CDU leaders questioned the legitimacy of civil society organizations that challenge state policies. In February, the party’s General Secretary Carsten Linnemann called for an end to taxpayer funding for activist groups deemed too “political”. Under a CDU-led government, restrictions on civil society, which plays a crucial role 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 former core constituencies. The coalition agreement also includes tougher stances on migration and integration. For Roma and others, this means fewer protections, fewer resources, and greater political isolation. Even the Greens and the Left Party – positioned in the opposition with limited power to influence legislation – will face an uphill battle advocating for minority 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 battle 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 minority communities. Roma are already disproportionately targeted by law enforcement, and this will likely escalate as the government seeks to project a “law and order” image. History has shown that when nationalist forces gain influence, Roma are among the first to be scapegoated. 

Another pressing issue is the potential for deportations on a larger scale. Roma from the Balkans, many of whom have lived in Germany for decades, are particularly 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, similar tactics have been used to push Roma out under the guise of “maintaining social order”. 

Beyond these immediate threats, civil 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 history must be reclaimed, not erased 

Yet Roma have always resisted erasure. Defending civil society is crucial, as attacks on civil 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 necessary – Roma and their allies must move beyond passive voting and become candidates, organizers and decision-makers. At the same time, the fight for historical recognition must continue. Roma have been part of Germany for over six centuries, yet their contributions remain unrecognized. From skilled artisans in the 15th century to labourers in the post-war economic boom, Roma have played an integral role in shaping Germany’s success. This history 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 warning sign for all marginalized groups. If exclusionary policies take hold, they will eventually expand to migrants, refugees and other minorities. The coming months will define the next decade for Roma and many other groups in Germany. Waiting for change from above is no longer an option. Resistance 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 testing 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 development at the Roma Foundation for Europe.

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German politics, Germany, minority rights, Roma