AfD's Contradictory Stance on AI in German Election Campaign

Artificial Intelligence in the Election Campaign: The AfD and the Contradiction

Artificial intelligence (AI) is entering more and more areas of our lives and is increasingly shaping political discourse. In the context of the upcoming election campaign, it is therefore relevant to examine the positions of the various parties on this topic. The AfD's stance on AI, in particular, raises questions and reveals contradictions that require closer examination.

The AfD's Election Platform: Technology and Artificial Intelligence

The AfD is campaigning for a "world-leading AI made in Germany," powered by inexpensive energy. At the same time, the party rejects European regulation of AI, such as the AI Act, and criticizes EU investments in cloud infrastructure and chip production as "exceeding competence" and a "waste of money." Innovations like the internet, the party argues, emerged without state funding.

Another aspect of the AfD's positioning on AI is the link to migration policy demands. The party sees automation as a way to reduce dependence on "non-EU migrants" and combat the shortage of skilled workers. Simultaneously, the election program acknowledges – albeit only marginally – the risks of AI for civil liberties.

Contradictions and Their Possible Significance

These positions raise some questions. How can a world-leading AI "made in Germany" emerge if European collaborations and funding programs are rejected at the same time? Is the focus on cheap energy sufficient to compete globally with tech giants like Nvidia, Amazon, Microsoft, or Google, which are investing massively in AI research and development? And can AI actually specifically replace the workers that the AfD wants to keep out of the country through its migration policies?

The contradictory nature of these positions could have various causes. It could be strategic considerations aimed at appealing to different voter groups. It is also conceivable that the party has not fully grasped the complexity of the AI topic. Another interpretation would be that the contradictions are deliberately used to create confusion and distract from other political issues.

The Role of AI in the Election Campaign

The debate surrounding AI in the election campaign shows how technological developments are changing the political landscape. The question of regulating AI, its impact on the labor market, and the associated societal challenges will continue to gain importance in the future. It is important that voters critically examine the parties' positions on this topic and weigh the possible consequences for the future of Germany and Europe.

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