Small but Perfectly Formed? The Rise and Rise of Germany's Smaller Parties

Abstract

This article analyses the reasons for the rise and stabilisation of the Free Democrats, the Greens and the Left Party as long-term actors in the German party system. It explains why they have become more electorally relevant in recent years and also analyses what effect this is having on the dynamics of everyday political life in Germany. It analyses the bases of their support as well as their future prospects, before concluding with a discussion of their impact on the German party system.