Merz: First draft of the new CDU platform ready

🗓️ CDU's New Basic Program: The First Draft Unveiled

The CDU Basic Constitution Commission has wrapped up a whopping 15-hour session to produce the initial draft of the party's upcoming fundamental program! Chairperson Friedrich Merz shared the exciting news on social media, proclaiming its readiness to be presented to committees on May 8, 2024, in Berlin. Merz, along with Secretary General Carsten Linnemann, will introduce this new framework to the party's executive committee this coming Monday!

The current basic program, dated 2007, is now set to receive a fresh update. This new draft is poised to gain approval by the Federal Executive Committee before undergoing further discussion and adoption by the 1001 delegates at the party conference in May. The CDU, which currently holds around 30% support in the polls, is hoping this updated program will help reposition the party as the party "pure CDU," as emphasized by Linnemann.

Pension Pressure Points

As the highly anticipated draft approaches, much of the attention turns towards the thorny issue of pensions. Carsten Linnemann echoed a desire to boost individual responsibility through the new platform, with a particular focus on the concept of a "social year." This innovative idea proposes support for those unable to work, while encouraging those who can work to remain active in the workforce.

A controversial proposal by the Expert Commission on Social Security, suggesting a later retirement age in correlation with increasing life expectancy, stirred up quite a commotion in April. By 2030, this radical change would link the retirement age to life expectancy if it continues to rise at the projected rate.

The CDU's Immediate Action Plan

Despite the pressing matter of pensions, it's important to acknowledge the wider scope of the CDU's proposed changes, known as the Sofortprogramm (immediate action plan). This comprehensive plan touches on various aspects of German politics, economy, and security:

Economic relief, including tax reductions for electricity and VAT on restaurant food, as well as subsidies for farmers.
Rollback of bureaucratic regulations and limitations on overtime hours.
Reinforcements to Germany's internal security through stricter immigration policies and ankle tags.
Government structure streamlining, such as reducing the number of MPs.

The CDU's Sofortprogramm does not delve deeply into pensions, but acknowledges a potential agreement with the SPD's policies in this area.