Germany’s Election Winner Friedrich Merz Begins Coalition Talks Amid Political Uncertainty

Friedrich Merz, leader of Germany’s conservative CDU/CSU alliance and winner of the recent elections, has initiated coalition discussions with the Social Democrats (SPD) to form a new government. As Germany faces economic and political challenges, both parties are exploring the possibility of cooperation.

Manuela Schwesig of the SPD emphasized the need for compromises from both sides, stating, “Everyone must work together and make an effort to ensure political stability.”

Merz’s CDU/CSU secured 28.6% of the vote, while the SPD suffered its worst-ever result at 16.4%. With Merz pushing for a coalition agreement before the Easter holiday, negotiators must resolve critical differences on immigration policies, budget constraints, and economic recovery strategies.

Germany has been in political turmoil since Chancellor Olaf Scholz’s three-party coalition collapsed in November due to internal conflicts. Schwesig acknowledged the previous government’s failure, stressing that “constant disputes not only weaken leadership but also democracy itself.”

While coalition negotiations in Germany are typically prolonged, Merz aims for a swift resolution, citing pressing economic challenges and shifting global relations, particularly with the United States under President Donald Trump.

Ruling out any alliance with the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD), which achieved a record 20% of the vote, Merz sees the SPD as his only viable coalition partner. If successful, this would mark the fourth grand coalition between the CDU/CSU and SPD in modern German history.