Merz Pledges European Union Focus In Final Days Of German Election Campaign

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Post on Feb 23, 2025

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Merz Pledges EU Focus in Final Days of German Election Campaign

Berlin, Germany – With the German federal election just days away, CDU/CSU candidate Friedrich Merz is sharpening his focus on European Union issues in a last-ditch effort to sway undecided voters. In a series of campaign rallies and interviews across the country this week, Merz has emphasized his vision for a stronger, more assertive Germany within the EU, contrasting his approach with that of his main rival, Olaf Scholz of the SPD.

Merz, addressing a crowd in Munich on Tuesday, highlighted the importance of strengthening the EU's external borders and bolstering its defense capabilities in the face of growing global challenges. He specifically called for increased investment in European defense projects and closer cooperation with NATO allies. This stance reflects a shift towards a more hawkish foreign policy position than some previous CDU leaders, appealing to a segment of the electorate concerned about security and national sovereignty.

The CDU/CSU candidate’s emphasis on the EU also includes a commitment to deeper economic integration within the bloc. Merz has advocated for reforms to the Eurozone, including strengthening the European Central Bank's role in economic governance and promoting fiscal responsibility among member states. He's argued that a stronger EU economy is crucial not only for Germany but for the entire continent's prosperity and stability. However, he has also acknowledged the need to address concerns about national sovereignty and democratic accountability within the EU framework, seeking to balance integration with national interests.

His campaign has also seen him directly engage with the ongoing debate surrounding the rule of law within the EU. While avoiding direct criticism of specific member states, Merz has stressed the importance of upholding common European values and principles, implicitly suggesting a tougher line on countries perceived as violating these norms. This issue, particularly sensitive given recent controversies in some Eastern European member states, is expected to resonate with a portion of the German electorate concerned about the EU's integrity and effectiveness.

However, Merz’s EU focus hasn't been without criticism. Political analysts have pointed out that his proposals on defense spending and Eurozone reform lack sufficient detail, leaving some voters unsure about the concrete implications of his vision. Furthermore, some commentators suggest that his emphasis on a more assertive German role in the EU could alienate other member states and undermine the bloc's consensus-based decision-making processes.

The final days of the campaign will likely see a continued focus on the EU, as both Merz and Scholz vie for the support of voters who prioritize the issue. The outcome of the election will have significant consequences for the future direction of the EU, with Merz's more assertive approach potentially leading to a shift in the bloc's foreign and economic policies. The polls currently show a tight race, making the final days of campaigning crucial for all candidates, particularly on key issues like the future of Europe. The impact of Merz's EU focus on the election outcome remains to be seen, but it's undoubtedly a significant element in his closing strategy. Exit polls and post-election analyses will provide further insights into the influence of his EU proposals on voter choices.