In a striking turn of events, Germany’s recent elections held on 23 February 2024 saw the conservative CDU/CSU coalition, led by Friedrich Merz, claim victory and position itself to form the next government. This electoral outcome highlights a significant political shift within the nation, as the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) achieved its best-ever result, securing approximately 20% of the vote.
The Conservative Victory
The CDU/CSU bloc won 28.5% of the votes, marking a crucial advance for Merz, who aims to establish stronger leadership compared to the outgoing Chancellor Olaf Scholz. Despite this win, Merz faces the challenge of forming a coalition amid a fragmented political landscape—any majority will require negotiations with other parties. It’s a complex situation, especially considering the recent collapse of Scholz’s coalition in November 2023 over budget disputes.
Challenges Ahead for Merz
- Merz is perceived as a brash economic liberal, a shift from the centrist policies of former Chancellor Angela Merkel.
- His party will need to navigate tricky discussions on immigration and the AfD’s rising influence.
- Coalition talks could be prolonged, delaying critical policies needed to rejuvenate Germany’s economy.
AfD’s Remarkable Rise
Alice Weidel, the openly gay leader of the AfD, has steered the party to unprecedented heights. Touted as the “uncrowned queen” of the far-right, her influence has grown notably during the campaign. The AfD’s rhetoric has polarised public opinion—paradoxically, Weidel’s presence appears to have somewhat “normalised” the party despite its controversial stances on immigration and nationalism.
The Impact of Foreign Allies and Public Sentiment
This election was marked by intervention from international figures, notably US President Donald Trump’s administration, which has seemingly bolstered the AfD’s profile. As attitudes toward immigration have hardened in Germany, the AfD’s growth represents a shift in public sentiment compared to the earlier “Refugees Welcome” culture.
Future Implications
The AfD’s electoral success, while not leading to direct governance, signals potential changes in future elections, with analysts suggesting that these results could pave the way for the party’s continued influence. The complex interplay of coalition formations in the Bundestag will be watched closely by not only Germany but also its European Union partners as they seek stability in the face of multiple challenges.