At the CDU national conference in Stuttgart, Jens Spahn, the parliamentary group leader for the Social Democrats, highlighted the supposed successes of the government led by Chancellor Friedrich Merz. He argued that Germany has once again taken a leading role in Europe and that Merz is the only European politician who can negotiate “at eye level” with U.S. President Donald Trump. Spahn criticized the foreign‑policy approach of the previous “traffic‑light” coalition and praised the new course, which, he said, places “German interests” at the forefront.
In terms of defence, Spahn said the government has initiated a “policy change” ensuring that the Bundeswehr is equipped with the “necessary means”. He also pointed to reforms of the conscription system. On domestic security, he noted that the Federal Police’s powers have been expanded and new measures introduced to combat domestic violence.
Spahn also spoke of progress in migration policy, claiming that the number of migrants entering Germany has fallen by 60 percent and that, at the European level, a concept of “safe third countries” has been adopted. He promised that the CDU will remain “firmly determined” to work on this issue in order to strengthen the “democratic middle”. Finally, he addressed the economic situation, asserting the need to lower labour costs and raise productivity to spur growth.
