German election rivals unveil competing visions for economy, migration

Germany’s leading contenders for chancellor unveiled their election platforms on December 17, offering contrasting blueprints to revitalize Europe’s largest economy, tackle migration, and shape the country’s future governance. 

The parliamentary election is slated for February 23, following the collapse of Chancellor Olaf Scholz’s three-party coalition last month over economic policy disagreements, Caliber.Az reports via foreign media.

Scholz, leader of the centre-left Social Democrats (SPD), is vying for a second term but faces an uphill battle against centre-right challenger Friedrich Merz of the Union bloc, which is leading in recent polls.

Vice Chancellor Robert Habeck of the Greens and Alice Weidel of the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) are also in the race, though AfD’s chances of governing are slim due to other parties' refusal to cooperate with it.

Economic policies take centre stage

Merz's Union bloc has pledged sweeping tax reforms, including cuts for individuals and businesses and raising the threshold for the top income tax bracket. "We aim to make overtime work more rewarding and reduce the burden on middle-income families," Merz stated. The Union also plans to abolish a solidarity tax initially introduced for the reunification of East and West Germany, which now only applies to high earners. Additionally, it seeks to incentivize employment by reforming benefits for the long-term unemployed.

Scholz’s SPD counters with promises of tax relief for 95% of earners and a reduction in value-added tax on groceries. The SPD, alongside the Greens, is advocating for a rise in the minimum wage to €15 per hour. Scholz also proposed a “Germany fund” to finance investments in energy infrastructure, housing, and innovative companies, dubbing it a “made in Germany bonus.” The Greens offered similar ideas but emphasized taxing the “super-rich” to support education and infrastructure projects.

The “debt brake,” Germany’s self-imposed borrowing limit, remains a contentious issue. Scholz and the Greens favour reforming it to boost investment, while Merz argues that it safeguards future generations from excessive debt. However, Merz hinted at potential flexibility for reforms down the line, saying, “It has already shown its adaptability in times of crisis.”

Sharp divides on migration

Migration policies highlighted stark differences among the contenders. The Union has promised stricter border controls and increased deportations of those not entitled to asylum. It also plans to repeal legislation passed under Scholz easing citizenship and dual nationality rules. “We need to restore order to our migration system,” Merz said.

The SPD defended the current government’s measures, citing a decline in irregular migration, while the Greens advocated for a Europe-wide fair distribution of asylum seekers.

Support for Ukraine amid war

Germany’s role in aiding Ukraine also featured prominently. All major contenders pledged continued support but with varying approaches. Scholz emphasized caution to prevent the conflict from escalating into a NATO-Russia war and reiterated his opposition to supplying long-range Taurus cruise missiles to Kyiv. “Prudence is key to ensuring stability,” Scholz said.

Merz’s Union bloc and the Greens have shown greater openness to sending long-range weapons. The Union proposed forming a “contact group” with France, Poland, and the UK to coordinate a robust strategy with the United States.

Coalition likely, compromise inevitable

With no party likely to secure an outright majority, coalition talks are inevitable. “We aim to be strong enough that others must adapt to us, not the other way around,” Merz declared confidently. Current polling suggests a combination of two or more among the Union, SPD, and Greens will be needed to form the next government, setting the stage for protracted negotiations.

As Germany prepares to choose its next leader, voters face a clear choice between competing visions for the nation’s future. The election will determine not just the country’s direction but its role in addressing broader European challenges.

In parallel, protests have erupted in Germany against Friedrich Merz, the candidate for the position of Chancellor and head of the Christian Democratic Union (CDU).

The news outlet Izvestia has shared footage from the scene of the demonstrations.

“Merz is a bad choice. He wants to send Taurus missiles to Ukraine. He’s mad. He wants to make [the country’s Vice-Chancellor Robert] Habeck the Minister of Economy again!” one protester said.

The footage shows people taking to the streets with placards bearing slogans such as “Merz from BlackRock spells the downfall of Germany” and “Sending Taurus missiles? Are you all out of your minds?”

By Aghakazim Guliyev