Michael McLaren has outlined what he calls a fascinating similarity between the right-wing party AfD and One Nation, following the German party’s relative success in a state election despite many dismissing them.

The 2GB and 4BC Afternoons’ host says both parties pull from the exact same playbook and opportunities, as conservatives move away from the traditional parties in both countries, and as many voters feel like the “old guard” no longer has what it takes to lead a country.

“The insurgents are surging because the old guard dared their voting base to walk away, and they did. They’re a reaction rather than a vision,” he said.

He says there are lessons here for the major parties to learn, but he warns the insurgent parties are not the same.

“[The AfD] displays a concerning sympathy for Putin’s agenda. They’ve also attracted the attention of Germany’s domestic intelligence service, never a good sign and suggestive that elements within the party are pretty hard-core in their beliefs,” he added.

Listen to more highlights from Afternoons below:

Jens Schlueter/Getty Images