Janice R. Andrews
Germany’s conservative CDU/CSU bloc, led by Friedrich Merz, has concluded preliminary talks with the Social Democrats (SPD) to form a new coalition government. Both parties agreed on key principles, including migration, economic recovery, and industrial growth, Merz announced on Saturday. Formal negotiations are set to begin next week, with the CDU expected to finalize its decision on Monday.
Coalition governments are a staple of German politics, typically formed in two phases: exploratory talks followed by formal negotiations. Merz emphasized that the CDU/CSU and SPD have aligned on critical issues, such as stricter border controls, including rejecting asylum seekers at shared European borders.
The proposed coalition aims to revive Germany’s struggling economy, which contracted for the second consecutive year in 2024 due to reduced exports and consumer spending. Plans include a 500 billion euro fund to overhaul infrastructure and stimulate growth over the next decade. Additionally, the coalition seeks to relax debt rules to boost defence spending, addressing growing concerns over Europe’s security amid doubts about U.S. commitment under a potential Trump administration.
Merz warned that Europe faces urgent challenges, particularly in strengthening the Bundeswehr (military), stating it was “five minutes to midnight” for Europe to stand independently against threats like Russia. He aims to finalize the coalition by April 20.
However, the CDU/CSU and SPD require support from the Greens to pass their proposals. Talks with the Greens are scheduled for next week, with Merz expressing optimism about reaching a consensus.
As Germany navigates economic and geopolitical challenges, the potential coalition signals a shift towards stronger European autonomy and economic revitalization. Stay tuned for updates as formal negotiations progress.
