A Right-wing Surge in Saxony |

DW’s investigative reporter, Maissun Melhem, returns to her former college town of Dresden to explore its transformed political landscape. In the aftermath of Germany’s 2017 federal election, Melhem delves into the meteoric rise of the far-right party Alternative for Germany (AfD). This at once fascinating and disturbing documentary, made in collaboration with Marc Erath, explores how Dresden, once associated with world-famous artists and cultural treasures, emerged as the birthplace of home-grown extremism.

Melhem, a Syrian native, captures intimate stories of a range of Dresden’s residents – from members of the AfD to those working to combat the far-right rhetoric. Through these stories, viewers gain a nuanced understanding of the complex compendium of historical, social, and economic factors that have contributed to Dresden’s radicalization. With DW’s documentary series, subscribe to DW’s Youtube channel to stay up-to-date with the world’s most critical events and cultures.