Former chancellor calls for balanced view of Germany’s government

Former German Chancellor Angela Merkel has called on citizens to take a measured and balanced view of the current government’s performance, arguing that its achievements should be evaluated fairly despite a difficult international environment.

In an interview with Focus magazine, Merkel stressed the importance of moderation in public judgment.

“Every citizen should try to assess what the government has already managed to achieve with moderation and balance — these were always my favourite words,” she said, adding: “One cannot say that nothing at all has happened.”

Merkel, who served as Germany’s chancellor from 2005 to 2021, declined to directly assess the policies of the current chancellor, Friedrich Merz, though she wished him success. Both Merkel and Merz are members of the Christian Democratic Union.

She noted that the current governing coalition is operating “in difficult external conditions,” pointing to ongoing wars in Ukraine and the Middle East, and said it is confronting serious challenges.

The former chancellor also defended the economic approach of her own government, highlighting measures taken during the 2008 global financial crisis and underscoring the importance of maintaining budget stability, including adherence to the “debt brake.”

Addressing relations with the United States during Donald Trump’s presidency, Merkel urged policymakers to focus on shared interests and to act “without fear.” She also cautioned against underestimating the American leader, emphasising his considerable influence and political power.

By Tamilla Hasanova