The fragility of Germany’s governing coalition is increasingly apparent, with CDU parliamentary group leader Jens Spahn issuing a stark warning about dwindling public support. In an interview with the “Berlin Playbook” podcast, Spahn acknowledged the coalition – comprised of the Christian Democratic Union (CDU) and the Social Democratic Party (SPD) – is currently experiencing a significant loss of confidence, reflected in consistently grim polling data. He dismissed attempts to gloss over the severity of the situation, stating the coalition jointly wins or loses and presently, they are losing.
Spahn’s assessment extends beyond mere acknowledgement of declining approval. He questioned the underlying motivation and shared objectives driving the alliance, directly asking if both parties remain committed to its success. He emphasized that the current legislative period represents a crucial juncture for both the CDU and SPD, a defining moment that will determine whether they can maintain their status as traditional “Volksparteien” – broadly representative people’s parties.
While expressing confidence that the coalition will ultimately endure – driven by a sense of shared responsibility – Spahn highlighted a pervasive lack of optimism within Germany. He described a national “mollstimmung” a melancholic mood, where even those experiencing personal prosperity harbor a sense that the country’s best days are behind it. He stressed the urgent need to restore growth and confidence within the nation.
The discourse has been further complicated by recent controversial remarks from CDU leader Friedrich Merz. Merz’s comments regarding the perceived impact of reduced refugee numbers on “cityscapes” – initially vague and later elaborated upon to distinguish between long-term residents and those without a secure status – have ignited a fierce debate. Spahn directly rebuked his coalition partner for triggering a “left-wing outrage circus” accusing him of unnecessarily fueling divisive narratives. He cautioned against the dangers of internal accusations of “racist narratives” within the governing alliance, warning that such behavior undermines cooperation.
Merz’s subsequent attempts to clarify his position, acknowledging a distinction between integrated, established residents and those without permanent status, have done little to quell the controversy. The incident exposes a deeper fault line within the coalition, underscoring the challenges in navigating complex social and political issues while maintaining a united front. The episode raises broader questions about the future stability of the government and its ability to effectively address the anxieties and divisions within German society.
