In a recent speech at the Munich Security Conference, Vance emphasized the importance of the people's voice in democracy, calling for an end to the longstanding German political norm of avoiding collaboration with far-right parties. This comes against a backdrop of heightened political tension in Germany where the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) appears to be gaining traction amid security and immigration debates. Notably, the AfD's potential electoral success has drawn criticism from government officials who feel outsiders should refrain from interfering in German politics. Vance also commented on the perceived overstatement of online disinformation threats to democracy.
Democracy rests on the sacred principle that the voice of the people matters, said Vance in a speech to the Munich Security Conference.
There's no room for firewalls, he added, referring to the long-standing position of Germany's established parties not to work with the far right.
The comments come amidst a German election campaign that has been dominated by immigration and security.
Vance also told the Wall Street Journal that the threat to European democracy from online disinformation - including narratives pushed by Russia - had been overstated.
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