Friedrich Merz’s first year as CDU leader marked by economic downturn and rise of the far-right

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Germany is navigating a challenging political and economic period as Friedrich Merz completes a pivotal year leading the CDU opposition. While the ruling coalition faces declining approval ratings, the CDU has struggled to fully capitalize on this discontent, as a significant portion of disillusioned voters are instead supporting the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD). Combined with a stagnating national economy and industrial uncertainty, Merz faces internal and external pressure to define a clear conservative alternative while maintaining a strict political boundary against far-right cooperation.

  • The German economy is currently experiencing stagnation, with weak growth forecasts and challenges within the country’s industrial sector.
  • Polling data indicates a significant rise in support for the far-right AfD, which has reached record highs in several regions.
  • Friedrich Merz is working to position the CDU as a viable alternative to the current government by focusing on economic stability and stricter migration policies.
  • The CDU maintains a “firewall” policy, officially refusing to enter into political coalitions or cooperation with the AfD at any level.
  • Despite public dissatisfaction with the governing coalition, the mainstream conservative opposition has faced difficulties in converting that frustration into direct electoral support.

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DW Newshttps://www.dw.com/
Deutsche Welle is Germany's public international broadcaster, delivering news, features, and documentaries across television, radio, and digital platforms in roughly 30 languages. Although it is funded by the German federal tax budget, DW is legally mandated to operate with strict editorial independence. Its primary mission is to convey a comprehensive picture of Germany, present independent perspectives on global events, and promote the understanding of democratic values internationally.

26 COMMENTS

  1. German chancellor said nothing when my 🇺🇸 destroyed the Nord Stream because Germany is a slave to 🇺🇸. 🇩🇪 must tell 🇺🇸 military leave Germany and apologize to Russia.

  2. For a great industrial export driven economy, among the strongest in the world to decouple from a stong energy policy will be studied by economist and business schools for years to come.

  3. Didn't Merz visit Israel back in December 2025 to negotiate a major arms deal? Why does DW makes it look like Merz has changed the status quo in Germany's foreign policy regarding what they call the "Gaza crisis"?

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