Proposal for a Commission Directive on the requested topic is anticipated
In the heart of Germany, public opinion towards Chancellor Friedrich Merz's government is currently experiencing a mixed response, with a general leaning towards negativity. Here's a summary of the current sentiments:
**Approval Ratings:** Chancellor Merz's personal approval ratings have shown a downward trend. A recent Forsa Institute poll reported his approval rating dropping to 35%, with 59% viewing his performance unfavourably[1]. A YouGov poll revealed that only 22% of voters believe the situation in Germany has improved since Merz took office, while 32% see it as worsening[3].
**Government Performance:** Dissatisfaction with the government's performance is on the rise, with only 38% expressing satisfaction according to the Forsa poll[1]. The YouGov poll also indicates that 71% of respondents disagree with Merz's assertion that his government is one of the best in recent decades[3].
**Key Issues:** The public is expressing concern over the government's handling of pressing issues. For instance, the decision not to lower the electricity tax for households has been met with criticism, contributing to public discontent[1][3]. Additionally, Merz's comments on social and immigration policies have been controversial, leading to polarization[4].
**Political Opposition:** The opposition parties have been vocal in their criticism. The leader of the AfD party, Alice Weidel, has launched attacks on Merz's policies and performance[2]. Debates over the government's budget proposals and border security measures have further fuelled opposition criticisms[2].
**Future Outlook:** The question of whether the new government can keep the AfD at bay in the long run is a topic of debate among Germans. The YouGov survey shows that 31% believe the Union will be ahead of the AfD in polls by the end of Merz's term, while 26% expect the AfD to be ahead[3]. Another 26% believe the two parties will be roughly equal[3].
The YouGov survey, conducted between July 11 and 14, interviewed 2,192 eligible voters[5]. The results suggest a challenging road ahead for Chancellor Merz as he enters the summer break.
[1] Forsa Institute Poll (June 2023) [2] Der Spiegel (July 2023) [3] YouGov Poll (July 2023) [4] Stern Magazine (June 2023) [5] YouGov (2023)
Germany's political landscape exhibits a negative tilt towards Chancellor Friedrich Merz, as indicated by his deteriorating approval ratings and dissatisfaction with his government's performance. This general discontent is evident in debates surrounding policy-and-legislation, including the government's handling of pressing issues and Merz's controversial social and immigration policies. The ongoing criticism from political opposition, especially the AfD party, further underscores the challenging environment within German politics and general-news landscape that Chancellor Merz faces.
