Conservative Victory in Germany, Far-Right Makes Historic Breakthrough

In Germany, the conservatives achieved a resounding victory in the legislative elections, while the far-right made a historic breakthrough, marking a significant shift in the country's political landscape.

A New Direction for Germany

The German federal elections on Sunday, February 23, 2025, signify a pivotal shift for the nation. The conservative CDU and their Bavarian sister party CSU, led by Friedrich Merz, clinched a win with approximately 29% of the vote.

This expected outcome propels them to the forefront of German politics. Simultaneously, the far-right AfD party has seen its support double compared to four years ago, now capturing close to 20% of the votes.

The Remarkable Rise of the AfD

The AfD’s surge, an anti-immigrant and pro-Russian party established in 2013, has been dubbed “historic” by its leader, Alice Weidel. Despite its growing influence and a “parliamentary flirtation” over immigration and security during the electoral campaign, the conservative bloc has ruled out any coalition with the AfD.

Looking to the Future

In this evolving political landscape, 69-year-old Friedrich Merz is eager to form a government swiftly. His aim is to stabilize a country shaken by various crises and, in his words, to “make Germany present again in Europe.”

This ambition will have repercussions not only nationally but also across the European Union.

Implications for Other Political Players

The outgoing Chancellor Olaf Scholz’s Social Democratic Party (SPD) secured about 16% of the votes, marking a “bitter defeat” for him.

The Greens, partners in Scholz’s government, also faced a setback, garnering only 13% of the vote. This election represents an unprecedented debacle for the SPD, Germany’s oldest party since World War II.