European lawmakers greenlight directive shielding workers from ionizing radiation hazards.
Chancellor Friedrich Merz's Early Success
The German Chancellor Friedrich Merz (CDU) has sparked enthusiasm among the voters at the onset of his term. As per a recent survey, 39% of Germans express high or moderate satisfaction with his work, a significant 14-point increase from early April. Nonetheless, a slim majority (56%) remains less or unimpressed with his performance.
Only Defense Minister Boris Pistorius (SPD) enjoys a majority backing in the federal cabinet, with 61% approval. The new SPD Finance Minister Lars Klingbeil and Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt (CSU) garner 39% and 32% approval, respectively. Dobrindt sees a 13-point surge in satisfaction compared to his tenure as Federal Transport Minister in 2018.
However, Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul (CDU) and AfD faction leader Alice Weidel face a more polarized reception. Wadephul's approval rate stands at 30%, while 25% are dissatisfied. Nearly half (45%) are unfamiliar with him, while Weidel's approval rating is 26%, with 66% expressing dissatisfaction.
Left faction leader Heidi Reichinnek and Green faction leader Katharina Dröge receive a approval from 17% and 12% of Germans, respectively. Approximately half are unfamiliar or hesitant to form an opinion about these leaders.
As we approach a monthsince the new government's inception, 40% of the German populace is content or very satisfied with the administration's performance. Yet, half (51%) remain unimpressed. A majority (55%) trusts the government to stimulate the German economy, and 52% have faith in its ability to represent German interests globally. The federal government's ability to ensure safety in Germany is met with skepticism, as only 43% believe it can achieve this, while 49% harbor doubts.
The CDU/CSU would secure 29% of votes in a hypothetical Bundestag election, with the AfD maintaining its 23%. The SPD and Green Party would earn 15% and 12%, respectively, while the Left would get 9%. The BSW and FDP, both currently below the threshold for seats, would remain at 4%.
Though the new government has shown promise, gaining public trust and implementing effective policies remain significant challenges. The government's endeavors, such as rapid amendments to the Fundamental Law to address climate neutrality, have been met with controversy. Moreover, concerns over living standards, housing, and immigration persist, casting a shadow over the administration's progress.
Sources:1. Germany's New Government: Challenges and Controversies2. Public Opinion on the German Government in 20253. Living Standards in Germany: An Ongoing Concern4. Housing Crisis in Germany: A Persistent Issue5. Climate Change Legislation: Controversy and Progress
Economic and social policy is a significant area of concern for Germans, with 40% expressing contentment or high satisfaction with the administration's performance, yet half remaining unimpressed. The general news highlights the government's efforts to stimulate the economy (55% trust), represent German interests globally (52% have faith), and address climate neutrality through rapid policy-and-legislation changes, which has sparked controversy among the public.
