CDU/CSU leads coalition talks as Germany navigates post-election landscape

In the recent German federal elections held on February 23, 2025, the conservative Christian Democratic Union (CDU) and its Bavarian sister party, the Christian Social Union (CSU), led by Friedrich Merz, secured the largest share of the vote with 28.5%, translating to 208 seats in the Bundestag.

The far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) experienced a significant surge, obtaining 20.8% of the vote and 152 seats, marking their strongest post-war performance.

The Social Democratic Party (SPD), previously the ruling party under Chancellor Olaf Scholz, saw a substantial decline, receiving 16.4% of the vote and securing 120 seats, their worst result since 1887.

Friedrich Merz has expressed intentions to form a coalition government, likely seeking partnership with the SPD, despite their electoral losses. Merz emphasized the need for swift coalition negotiations focusing on foreign policy, migration, and economic issues.

The AfD’s significant gains, particularly in Eastern Germany, have raised concerns among mainstream parties. Merz has reiterated his refusal to collaborate with the AfD, maintaining a political cordon sanitaire around the far-right party.

This election underscores a shifting political landscape in Germany, with traditional centrist parties facing challenges from both the right and left, necessitating careful coalition-building to ensure stable governance.

Source: comp.