German coalition affirms reform agenda as democracy faces 'historic test'
EWG•Senior members of Germany’s governing coalition vowed to quickly implement reforms, saying economic growth, secure jobs and social cohesion would be central to its agenda. The government faces record-low approval ratings and gains by the far-right AfD.
1. Coalition pledges reforms
Senior members of Germany’s governing coalition, including Chancellor Friedrich Merz and Finance Minister Lars Klingbeil, discussed policy at the chancellery late Wednesday. A message to lawmakers said the meeting was held in a “good and constructive atmosphere” and that the coalition agreed to prioritize economic growth, secure jobs and social cohesion.
2. Pressure on government
The coalition faces pressure from the AfD’s success in recent state elections, which has intensified concerns among mainstream parties and exposed tensions within the governing alliance. The message said Germany’s democracy was facing a “historic test.” The country’s welfare system is under pressure from an ageing society and rising health and elder-care costs, while the government needs to fund increased investment in defence and infrastructure.
