The Chancellor, Friedrich Merz (CDU), has called for a “new consensus on justice” during a parliamentary debate centered on reforms to the social welfare system. Addressing the Bundestag during a general debate on Wednesday, the Chancellor stated the discussion surrounding these reforms pertains to “nothing less than justice” and a re-evaluation of its meaning in the current era.
Specifically, the Chancellor emphasized the necessity of reassessing the generational contract regarding pensions. He underscored the importance of ensuring that younger generations are not disproportionately burdened while simultaneously allowing older generations to enjoy a secure retirement, acknowledging their lifetime contributions. “We must also restructure our pension system” he stated, adding that political responses need to adapt alongside societal changes.
Beyond domestic policy, Chancellor Merz defended his government’s foreign policy approach. He declared that the new foreign and security policy implemented since the government’s inception constitutes a “reform policy” intrinsically linked to domestic affairs, arguing that the separation between these areas is outdated. He positioned Germany’s international engagement as a means of safeguarding freedom, peace and prosperity within the nation.
Addressing what he described as a trend of lamenting the perceived powerlessness of politics in a rapidly changing world, the Chancellor refuted this sentiment. He cited the government’s adjustments to migration policy as a case in point, noting a reported 60% decrease in asylum seeker arrivals when comparing August 2024 to August 2025.
The general debate on the Chancellor’s budget, a traditional culmination of the budget week, saw a clash between the government and opposition. Following an opening statement by AfD leader Alice Weidel, who accused the Chancellor of complacency and left-leaning perspectives, Chancellor Merz delivered his remarks. The debate encompassed a wide range of federal policies beyond the budget itself.
