Polls open in high-stakes German election watched closely by Europe and US

Key Players

The German election is closely watched, with Friedrich Merz (CDU) leading, and the far-right AfD expected to be second. The outcome will heavily influence Germany's domestic and international policies, particularly concerning the ongoing war in Ukraine and the country's economic stability.

Key Issues

• Economy: Germany's struggling economy is a major concern for voters. Merz promises improvements but faces challenges with infrastructure and budget constraints.
• Migration and Security: Recent deadly attacks have heightened focus on immigration and security issues. The AfD is capitalizing on this concern with its anti-immigration platform and a controversial “remigration” policy.
• International Relations: Germany's role in the war in Ukraine and strained relations with the U.S. are significant aspects of the election.

AfD's Rise

The AfD's growing popularity, particularly among younger voters through platforms like TikTok, is a significant development. Their policy proposals include reviewing EU membership, scrapping climate measures, and improving relations with Russia. The party's anti-immigration stance has struck a chord with voters in economically depressed areas, especially in the former industrial heartland.

Other Parties

Several smaller parties, including the FDP and BSW, risk not crossing the 5% threshold to enter parliament, while the Left party has seen a recent surge in support.

Election Outcome

The election is highly significant for Germany and Europe due to its internal economic and political impacts, as well as its international standing. The results will shape domestic policy and affect Germany's position within the EU and its global alliances.