Browsing: Germany politics

Germany’s coalition deal critised

Europe

Merz’s CDU and its Bavarian sister party the Christian Social Union (CSU) have struck a coalition deal with the SPD to form a new government. The coalition agreement came after the CDU came in first place in snap German elections in February.   

Germany set to vote on historic increase in defence spending

EU

Germany’s Bundestag is poised to vote on a significant fiscal package that proposes amendments to longstanding debt policies, aiming to facilitate increased defence spending and establish a €500 billion infrastructure and climate fund.

The vote is seen as a response to Russia’s advances in Ukraine as the United States makes clear Europe can no longer rely on US protection from Russia.

Supporters of lifting the debt restrictions to boost defence spending say it’s essential for European security but there is also opposition. The decision could influence broader European defence initiatives, like the EU’s proposed €800 billion ReArm Europe fund.

Germany 2025 election explained for UK readers

EU

If you’re more familiar with the House of Parliament over the Bundestag, and you’re not quite sure who’s who in German politics, then look no further, this article is for you.

Germany’s coalition in crisis after Scholz fires finance minister

EU

Germany’s governing coalition is on the brink of collapse after Chancellor Olaf Scholz fired Finance Minister Christian Lindner, triggering a political crisis. Scholz, leader of the Social Democrats (SPD), announced that he had lost trust in Lindner, who heads the Free Democratic Party (FDP) and is part of the coalition.

Germany to tighten border controls after stabbing

Crime

Germany will expand its border checks following a tragic knife attack in Solingen, which left three people dead in August. The stricter controls will start September 16 for an initial six-month period.

Critics say the move is a political one rather than being focused on security.