The 2025 German federal elections have significantly changed the country’s political landscape. Conservative leader Friedrich Merz emerged victorious, defeating the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party, which experienced a substantial increase in support.
The Christian Democratic Union (CDU) and its Bavarian sister party, the Christian Social Union (CSU), secured 28.6% of the vote, making them the largest bloc in the Bundestag with 208 seats. The AfD, which doubled its vote share compared to the previous election, came in second with 20.8% of the vote and secured 152 seats.
The CDU of Germany is a center-right political party known for its conservative values. Here are some of their core values and the criticisms they face:
Core Values
- Christian Democracy: The CDU is rooted in Christian democratic principles and emphasizes the importance of Christian ethics in politics.
- Conservatism: The party advocates for traditional values, including family, social order, and national identity.
- Social Market Economy: The CDU supports a social market economy, which combines free-market capitalism with social policies to ensure fair competition and social welfare.
- Pro-European Union: The CDU is generally pro-European and supports European integration.
- Environmental Responsibility: While not as green-focused as some other parties, the CDU acknowledges the importance of environmental protection and sustainable development.
Criticisms
- Far-Right Influence: Critics argue that the CDU has sometimes relied on far-right votes to pass certain motions, which has led to internal rifts and public backlash.
- Economic Policies: Some critics believe that the CDU’s economic policies favor the wealthy and large corporations, potentially widening the gap between rich and poor.
- Immigration Stance: The CDU’s stance on immigration has been a point of contention, with some accusing the party of being too strict and not welcoming enough refugees and immigrants.
- Environmental Policies: Environmentalists often criticize the CDU for not doing enough to combat climate change and for being too lenient on industries contributing to ecological degradation.
The Social Democratic Party (SPD), led by outgoing Chancellor Olaf Scholz, suffered its worst post-war result, finishing third with 16.4% of the vote and 120 seats. Voter turnout for the election was a record-breaking 83.5%, the highest since German reunification in 1990.
The election campaign was dominated by concerns about the economy, immigration, and Germany’s role in the European Union. Merz’s CDU/CSU focused on addressing economic stagnation and implementing a tougher stance on immigration, which resonated with many voters.
The AfD, known for its anti-immigration policies and pro-Putin stance, capitalized on public discontent and fears related to migration and security. Despite their victory, the CDU/CSU will need to form a coalition to secure a majority in the Bundestag.
Merz has ruled out working with the AfD, adhering to the “firewall” policy that mainstream German parties have maintained against the far-right. This leaves the CDU/CSU with limited options and likely requires a coalition with either the SPD or the Greens.
“I am aware of the responsibility,” Merz said. “I am also aware of the scale of the task that lies ahead of us. I approach it with the utmost respect, and I know that it will not be easy.”
The election results have drawn reactions from leaders worldwide. U.S. President Donald Trump hailed the CDU’s victory as a validation of his populist political movement, despite the CDU’s attempts to distance itself from the Trump administration.
“We are more determined than ever to achieve great things together for France and for Germany and to work for a strong and sovereign Europe,” French President Emmanuel Macron emphasized.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky expressed hopes for continued cooperation with Germany.
“Europe must be able to defend itself, develop its industries, and achieve the necessary results,” Zelensky said.
