Proposal sought for a worker radiation safety directive, addressing risks from ionizing radiation exposure.
Friedrich Merz, the newly elected German Chancellor, has taken office amidst a mixed response to his strategic approach and campaign presentation. His victory in the 2025 federal election marked a significant shift in German politics, but his popularity and public confidence, particularly on immigration policy, have seen a notable decline.
Merz, who represented the CDU/CSU in a shortened campaign following the collapse of the previous coalition, took a firm stance on irregular immigration, distancing himself from the centrist approach of Angela Merkel. This shift has polarised public opinion, with conservative voters aligning with his stance, but broader approval remaining elusive. Surveys reveal that only about 40% of Germans currently believe Merz can effectively manage immigration issues, a figure that has dropped since the election.
Despite the support of his core base, Merz's coalition government faces internal discord. Disputes over budget allocations for defense and infrastructure, and political crises such as the contentious Federal Constitutional Court appointment, have weakened the perception of unity and effectiveness at home.
Merz's ambitious programs, including a €500 billion infrastructure boost and a significant increase in defense spending to 3.5% of GDP, signal strategic shifts towards economic strength and global leadership. However, these moves come with political costs, particularly within the coalition and among fiscal conservatives.
The rise of the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) continues to complicate the political landscape. The AfD's growing share (around 24%) reflects ongoing voter dissatisfaction with mainstream parties, including Merz's CDU/CSU bloc, which holds a narrow lead at 27%. Thus, Merz is navigating a treacherous political environment where pushing hard on divisive issues like immigration risks strengthening far-right narratives and alienating moderate voters.
As the final weeks of the election campaign approach, Merz must confront these challenges. His refusal to admit mistakes and his perceived lack of connection with the general public have come back to haunt him. The CDU's campaign, perceived as technocratic and focusing on images of Germany rather than Merz himself, has not gained the desired traction.
However, Merz has shown courage by adjusting migration policy, a move that has sparked controversy. He has also demonstrated a willingness to debate with populist figures, such as Alice Weidel. The CDU's campaign narrative is about change, preservation, and modernization, and the party must now focus on building new bridges and returning to its core themes: economy and growth.
In the coming months, Merz will need to navigate these complexities to build a durable consensus and win over broader voter segments. Some analysts suggest he might be "choosing the wrong waves to surf," as his strategy risks deepening political fractures rather than healing them. The next phase of Merz's chancellorship will be crucial in determining the course of German politics for the foreseeable future.
Sources
- Deutsche Welle
- The Local
- BBC News
- Spiegel Online
- Politico Europe
- Friedrich Merz's controversial immigration policy stance during the election campaign has raised questions about his ability to manage such issues effectively, as revealed by recent surveys, potentially affecting his coalition's legislative agenda on policy-and-legislation.
- The general-news outlets have been closely monitoring Merz's interactions with political rivals like Alice Weidel and the implications of his hardline immigration approach, which has polarized public opinion and intensified the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD)'s influence, further complicating the German political landscape.
