The SPD is gearing up for a critical member vote on the coalition agreement with the CDU/CSU. This vote, set to conclude by April 29, is crucial for the formation of a stable government. However, the SPD's youth wing, the Jusos, has openly rejected the agreement, citing major concerns. Juso leader Philipp Türmer has highlighted issues in areas like migration, labor, and social policies, which he claims contradict core social democratic values.
Despite the pushback, senior SPD figures, including Dirk Wiese and Georg Maier, advocate for the agreement, emphasizing that it reflects many of the party's demands. They acknowledge that while the agreement isn't perfect, it contains significant progress in infrastructure, digitalization, and social cohesion.
The coalition agreement's stipulations, especially regarding the minimum wage, have ignited debates within the party. The SPD demands a rise to 15 euros by 2026, a point contested by CDU leader Friedrich Merz. The agreement also includes a financing clause, which Türmer described as a potential threat.
While the Jusos resist the coalition, they are not launching a large-scale campaign against it, unlike their 'NoGroKo' efforts in 2017. They remain engaged in discussions with members, seeking substantial revisions.
The outcome of this vote is pivotal. A rejection could lead to political instability, as the SPD's approval is essential for Merz's potential election as Chancellor on May 6. The coalition's fate hangs in the balance, contingent on whether the SPD can reconcile internal dissent and rally enough support.
