Coalition Struggles with COVID-19 Evaluation

The Traffic Light Coalition is embroiled in a dispute over how to evaluate the COVID-19 pandemic response. The FDP proposed an Enquete Commission, while the SPD favored a Citizens' Council. Although there were recent considerations to implement both, disagreements persist over their composition. Concerns also arise that evaluating the pandemic response by Fall 2025 might be futile. Green Party leader Katharina Dröge acknowledges the lack of a common solution.

Efforts to assess the pandemic policies have hit a dead end due to disagreements within the coalition. Criticism has emerged over perceived infringements on basic rights during the pandemic, and there is a push to integrate pandemic lessons into healthcare reforms. Meanwhile, the FDP is experiencing internal pressure, with calls for a member vote on leaving the coalition due to poor electoral results in Eastern Germany.

These internal conflicts underscore the coalition's challenges in addressing critical policy areas, including healthcare and women's and family policies. Despite significant investments, the coalition's efforts face criticism, highlighting the urgency for consensus and effective action as the Bundestag elections approach.