In Germany’s 2025 election, Friedrich Merz’s Christian Democratic Union (CDU) emerged victorious, claiming a leading position over rival parties. However, the CDU fell short of its anticipated 30% vote share, securing just 28.6%, leading to challenges in forming a stable coalition government.
The election’s surprising outcome also saw the far-right party, Alternative for Germany (AfD), achieve a record second-place finish with 20.8% of the vote. Although Alice Weidel, AfD’s candidate for chancellor, celebrated the success, she voiced disappointment over the results, hinting at the possibility of new elections in the near future.
While the CDU remains the largest party, coalition-building will be difficult due to the Social Democrats’ (SPD) disappointing 16.4% result. Merz’s most probable coalition partner is the Greens, despite strained relations. The rise of the far-right, with strong support in eastern Germany, has added complexity to the political landscape.
The future of Germany’s government remains uncertain, as the CDU must navigate the challenges of forming a coalition in a divided political climate. The growth of far-right parties and the increasing importance of social media in election campaigns signal a shift in the country’s political landscape.
Merz’s victory and the AfD’s rise have drawn international attention, with reactions from European leaders like French President Emmanuel Macron and UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer. As Germany adjusts to its new political reality, the coming months promise to be a period of significant change.
