German Election Enters Final Stage: Merz's Pledge For European Influence

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Post on Feb 23, 2025

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German Election Enters Final Stage: Merz Vows to Boost Germany's European Influence

BERLIN – With just days to go until the crucial German state elections in several states (specifically Bavaria, Hesse, and Baden-Württemberg on October 8th, 2023), the campaign has entered its final, frenetic stage. While these aren't federal elections, the results will significantly impact the national political landscape and serve as a key barometer for the popularity of the major parties ahead of the next Bundestag elections. The focus is sharply on the Christian Democratic Union (CDU), currently led by Friedrich Merz, and their prospects for regaining lost ground. A key plank of Merz's platform is a renewed commitment to strengthening Germany's role within the European Union.

Merz, campaigning vigorously across the affected states, has repeatedly emphasized the need for Germany to take a more assertive leadership role in European affairs. He argues that under the current coalition government, Germany has been too hesitant and reactive, allowing other EU members to dictate the agenda. His proposed approach involves a more proactive engagement in shaping EU policy, particularly in areas such as economic development, defense, and foreign policy. This contrasts with the approach of the current coalition government, which some critics have accused of prioritizing consensus-building over decisive action.

Specifically, Merz has pledged to champion a stronger European defense policy, arguing that Germany must play a more significant role in NATO and the EU's Common Security and Defence Policy (CSDP). He has called for increased defense spending and a greater commitment to joint military operations with European partners. His proposals also include a push for deeper economic integration within the EU, advocating for reforms to strengthen the Eurozone and improve the competitiveness of the European single market.

However, Merz's vision faces headwinds. The CDU is still recovering from its defeat in the 2021 federal election, and public opinion remains divided on the issue of increased European integration. Some voters express concerns about ceding sovereignty to Brussels, while others question the feasibility and cost of ambitious EU-wide projects. The other major parties – the Social Democratic Party (SPD), the Greens, and the Free Democratic Party (FDP) – are also campaigning actively, offering competing visions for Germany's future role in Europe and domestically.

The upcoming state elections are crucial for Merz and the CDU. A strong performance would bolster his leadership and send a powerful message to the national electorate ahead of the next federal election. A poor showing, on the other hand, could further weaken the party and raise questions about Merz's ability to lead the CDU back to power. The results will be closely scrutinized not only in Germany but also across the EU, offering valuable insights into the prevailing political mood and the direction of European integration. Analysts will be particularly focused on voter turnout and the shifting support among different demographic groups. The next few days will be critical in determining the outcome, shaping not only the political landscape of several German states, but potentially influencing the broader European political scene in the years to come. The stakes, therefore, are incredibly high.