After a two and a half month delay following the Bundestag elections, the new coalition government in Germany, formed by CDU/CSU and SPD, is officially ratified. Friedrich Merz is set to be elected as the new Chancellor. The article highlights the fact that Germany was somewhat sidelined during this period, leaving a visible power vacuum on the world stage.
The low public confidence in Merz is a major concern. Analysis points towards broken pre-election promises by the CDU and a hasty compromise with the SPD on debt brakes. Polling data indicates that the AfD is gaining popularity, and many Germans express disappointment in the coalition agreement.
The revised economic forecasts remain bleak, showing minimal or no economic growth. The government plans to address this by decreasing corporate taxes and reducing bureaucracy. A new female minister of economy is to be appointed, focusing on restructuring energy policy.
Migration is another key issue, with the new interior minister, from the CSU, advocating strong measures to reduce the influx of refugees. Collaboration with other European countries is planned.
The AfD, classified as an extremist organization by German intelligence, remains a powerful force in the Bundestag. While unlikely to achieve a full majority, it continues to gain support and poses a significant challenge to the government.
Under Merz, Germany aims to reassert its leadership role in Europe, and resume its close collaboration with France. A strengthened national security council will be established within the Chancellery. While support for Ukraine remains strong, potential friction between coalition partners over supplying Taurus missiles is expected.
Merz's ambition is to resolve Germany's problems and strengthen Europe's position. However, he lacks a clear majority and will need close collaboration with the SPD, whose role is pivotal in this government. The government's ability to meet public expectations and manage internal and external pressures will be put to the test in the coming months.