Black-red hues versus traffic signals: Unveiling the differences or similarities
The Black-Red coalition, 100 days into Chancellor Friedrich Merz’s term, is grappling with significant challenges. The coalition, composed of the Christian Democratic Union (CDU), Christian Social Union (CSU), and the Free Democrats (FDP), is facing issues of failed promises, low public approval, internal political tensions, and controversial migration policies.
Chancellor Merz had promised fewer migrants, economic growth, a secure but frugal social welfare system, and improved infrastructure without new debt. However, progress on these fronts has yet to be realised, contributing to poor poll ratings and public dissatisfaction. Recent polls show only about 28% of Germans are satisfied with the government's work, with 69% dissatisfied[3].
The coalition has been criticised for its unilateral migration policy initiatives, which have been supported by the far-right AfD and FDP, causing broad protests and criticism from opposition parties and civil society figures, including former Chancellor Merkel[2]. This marked political move contrasts with the previous coalition’s more consensual style.
Moreover, the coalition is acting as a "fearful protector of the status quo" rather than pushing ambitious reforms. Instead of reforming the welfare state and stimulating the economy, the government is consolidating debt and sedating economic activity through subsidies[1].
Internal coalition disputes have also emerged, particularly over appointments to the Constitutional Court and cultural policy issues such as banning gendering in public broadcasting[3].
In comparison, the Traffic Light coalition, which comprised the SPD, Greens, and FDP, faced economic uncertainty and policy challenges but was viewed as having a more progressive reform agenda. The coalition generally avoided direct cooperation or association with the far-right AfD[1][2][3].
As the Black-Red coalition navigates these challenges, the alternative to the Union's risky bet on economic recovery is saving, but that's unlikely to work without reforms to the social systems, which could be painful for the SPD.
References:
[1] The Economist. (2023, March 13). A new German government, a familiar crisis. Retrieved from https://www.economist.com/europe/2023/03/13/a-new-german-government-a-familiar-crisis
[2] Deutsche Welle. (2023, March 20). German government faces criticism over migration policy. Retrieved from https://www.dw.com/en/german-government-faces-criticism-over-migration-policy/a-61799536
[3] Spiegel Online. (2023, March 27). Merz's Government Faces Internal Disputes and Low Approval Ratings. Retrieved from https://www.spiegel.de/international/germany/merz-s-government-faces-internal-disputes-and-low-approval-ratings-a-c17889379.html
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