Challenges and Prospects for Germany's New Government

Germany is on the brink of forming a new government under Friedrich Merz, who is set to become Chancellor on May 6. This coalition of the CDU and SPD aims to tackle several pressing issues by implementing key agreements from their coalition contract, including stricter border controls and reducing bureaucracy. However, the path to this new government has not been without obstacles.

Merz has described the coalition negotiations as a 'critical phase,' particularly over disagreements with SPD on tax increases, which he firmly opposed. Despite these tensions, an agreement was reached, with promises that citizens will see changes before the summer holidays. To maintain unity and prevent disputes, the coalition plans monthly meetings.

The government's approach to the far-right AfD in the Bundestag is a significant topic of debate. CDU's Jens Spahn advocates treating the AfD like any other opposition party, a stance met with criticism from SPD and the Greens, who argue that the AfD poses a threat to democracy due to its extremist elements.

Meanwhile, public confidence in the incoming government appears lukewarm. A survey indicates that nearly half of the German population is skeptical about the new administration's effectiveness. As a response, the coalition plans to launch an immediate program to build public trust.

As Germany anticipates this political shift, the new government faces the dual challenge of navigating internal coalition dynamics and addressing public concerns. The coming months will be crucial in determining how these ambitions translate into action and policy.