A significant delay is anticipated in the German coalition’s review of electoral law, according to reports from within the ruling Union-SPD alliance. The commission, tasked with evaluating the controversial changes implemented by the previous “traffic light” government, is reportedly struggling to adhere to the initial timeline outlined in the coalition agreement.
The hold-up stems from a complicated interplay of political priorities. Sources suggest the conservative Union party’s desire for a reform of the recent electoral law adjustments has been inextricably linked to the Social Democratic Party’s (SPD) insistence on advancing the reform of Germany’s debt brake. The original coalition agreement, signed by Union and SPD, committed the government to presenting proposals for a new electoral law by 2025.
While commission member and CSU parliamentary group leader Alexander Hoffmann expressed cautious optimism, stating they hope to present findings in February, his assessment was framed within a critical lens. Hoffmann characterized the current electoral law as “undemocratic and partly unconstitutional” reflecting the deep dissatisfaction harbored by the Union regarding its previous implementation. Fellow commission member and CDU parliamentary group secretary Steffen Bilger echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the focus on ensuring all electoral districts have representation in parliament without expanding the Bundestag’s size – a central pledge within the coalition agreement.
However, the SPD holds a different perspective. SPD parliamentary group secretary Johannes Fechner highlighted the party’s focus on maintaining a stable Bundestag size while simultaneously aiming to significantly increase the proportion of female representatives. “We remain in good discussions regarding this” Fechner stated, revealing a potential divergence in priorities that complicates the reform process.
The delay and the interwoven nature of electoral law reform with fiscal policy raise questions about the coalition’s commitment to electoral integrity and representational fairness. Critically, tying these vital democratic reforms to the politically sensitive issue of debt brake adjustments risks compromising both objectives and fueling accusations of political expediency. The contrasting viewpoints within the commission also suggest a fundamental disagreement on the core principles guiding the electoral reform process, leaving the future of German parliamentary representation uncertain.
