Experimenting with Merz's Germany has stretched into an extended period of time, resembling a numerous three-month duration.
In the first 100 days of Friedrich Merz's tenure as Chancellor, his government has faced a series of challenges and controversies, both domestically and internationally.
Immigration
Merz's administration has taken a tougher stance on immigration, aiming to address voter concerns and counter the rising far-right AfD party. However, this hardline approach has caused tension within the governing coalition, particularly with SPD partners who are uneasy about Merz's right-wing positions. Germany is now turning back people at its borders on a discretionary basis and has proposed ending fast-track citizenship. Delays and racial profiling at international borders have been reported due to these changes.
Economy
Despite campaign promises of more economic growth without new debt, Merz's government has failed to deliver significant economic reforms. Instead, the government has preserved the existing welfare state and increased subsidies, leading commentators to describe the administration as a "fearful protector of the status quo" that sedates rather than stimulates the economy. Public dissatisfaction with economic performance and broader governance has resulted in poor poll ratings for the government.
Environment
Merz’s government shows limited enthusiasm for climate protection, drawing criticism within the coalition and from the public. There are no major new environmental initiatives reported so far, indicating little progress on this front.
Foreign Policy
Merz has been more active internationally, seeking to revive Germany’s military and international standing. Key moves include loosening debt rules to boost NATO spending, pledging support for Ukraine, and aiming to build "Europe’s largest conventional army" in response to Russia. His engagements have earned him the nickname "foreign chancellor," but this focus on global affairs contrasts with domestic coalition strains.
Parliamentary Procedure
The government has experienced internal discord, highlighted by a contentious nomination process for judges to Germany’s highest court. This incident, combined with Merz’s narrow confirmation in a secret ballot at his inauguration, signals underlying tensions and procedural challenges within the coalition.
Public Approval Ratings
Public approval ratings reflect these difficulties: only about 29-32% of Germans approve of the government and Merz personally, with rising support for the far-right AfD.
Neighbours' Reactions
Germany's neighbours have left their reaction to Germany's unilateral border checks at a low-to-symbolic level.
Coalition Stability
The CDU/CSU government, under Friedrich Merz and Markus Soeder, has managed to maintain a stable rapport in foreign affairs. However, the breakdown in party discipline, particularly in the unedifying spectacle surrounding elections to the Constitutional Court, has seriously damaged the coalition and potentially, our democratic system as a whole.
Other Developments
Merz has proven inept at controlling the parliamentary party, particularly in the unedifying spectacle surrounding elections to the Constitutional Court. Merz has shown a willingness to break convention and potentially violate European law to reduce the number of newcomers to Germany. The pensions bill is rising faster than ever, despite earlier promises to raise the state retirement age with life-expectancy.
Despite these challenges, Merz has managed to build a stable rapport with Donald Trump without appearing as a lackey. There is a summer debate on whether to cut Ukrainian refugees' benefits. Merz was not elected Chancellor three months ago, and the CDU/CSU first agreed to nominate Judge Brosius-Gersdorf and then failed to vote for her, causing a total breakdown in party discipline.
In summary, Merz’s first 100 days feature a strong foreign policy agenda but weak domestic progress on promised reforms in migration, economy, environment, and parliamentary unity, leading to public dissatisfaction and coalition tensions.
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