Germany's new coalition government, formed by the CDU/CSU and SPD, faces skepticism from the public about its ability to deliver significant policy changes. Despite the coalition agreement containing some core Union concerns, like tougher stances on social assistance and migration, many key campaign issues remain unaddressed or only weakly tackled. This includes topics such as nuclear energy, military service, and electoral reform.
The coalition's formation required compromises from Friedrich Merz, who had to make significant concessions to the SPD. This has led to criticism and doubts about the government's capacity to enact real change. The AfD has capitalized on this public doubt, gaining ground in polls as many Germans express skepticism about a true policy shift under the new government.
Despite these challenges, there is cautious optimism about the coalition's potential to work effectively together. The new government plans to invest in infrastructure, education, and cybersecurity, which has been met with both approval and criticism. Critics point out the bureaucratic hurdles and question the feasibility of implementing financial plans effectively.
The coalition also aims to make the migration policy more stringent, a move viewed optimistically by some Union politicians but with skepticism by others, including police unions. As the government navigates these complex issues, the next few months will be crucial in determining whether they can meet public expectations and maintain political stability amidst growing opposition from the AfD.
