Institute for Research on Far Right Extremism (IRex)

Research in the Local Political Cultures Unit

In this research unit, we analyze various aspects of local and regional political cultures – ranging from election results to attitudes and behaviors. Space plays an important role in the context of analysing the extreme right. We break down election results to the municipal level and carry out structural data analyses. On the one hand, space is a central category of analysis with regard to far-right attitudes and activities, as national, regional and local patterns can be seen here. On the other hand, spatial constructions are part of far-right ideologies and propaganda. We analyse both aspects in our research unit as well as in cooperation with colleagues from media studies (Dr. Helena Atteneder) and geography (Prof. Dr. Dr. Olaf Kühne). Findings, analyses and projects can be found here.

Research Projects

Monitoring of Far Right Extremism

Project duration: June 2023–ongoing. Project lead at IRex: PD Dr. Rolf Frankenberger.

Together with our partners, we have (further) developed a heuristic for recording far right events in order to implement an online, spatially orientied event monitoring system with a focus on Baden-Württemberg. We aim at offering an interested public a more precise overview of far right activities in the state. Information on monitoring follows.

Surey Research

Project duration: January 2025–ongoing. Project lead at IRex: PD Dr. Rolf Frankenberger.

We use quantitative surveys and qualitative case studies to investigate the prevalence of extreme right-wing attitudes in Baden-Württemberg. Starting with the first wave of the survey in 2025, we will regularly research the political culture of Baden-Württemberg using core instruments of research on far right extremism. Further updates will come soon.