Germany faces a big challenge. The new government needs to balance lowering industrial emissions with keeping the economy strong. It must also promote clean heating solutions that don’t break the bank and support a shift in transport, especially with the car industry struggling. On top of that, more investment is needed to adapt to climate change, especially as extreme weather becomes more common.
After the recent elections, conservatives are gearing up to talk with the Social Democrats (SPD) and the Green Party. These discussions will look at forming a coalition government.
People in the EU and other partners are keen to see a new government in place. With global issues piling up, and economic recovery slowing, the previous government’s collapse in November 2024 paused important national decisions. As Germany gears up for new campaigns, many feel that the EU’s ability to act is limited until a stable government is in place. Conservative leader Merz is eager to act quickly, hoping to form a government by late April. He stresses the urgency, saying, “The world is not waiting for us.”
Yet, Merz’s past decisions during the campaign have stirred criticism. His push for stricter migration laws with the far-right AfD, alongside his harsh words about potential coalition partners, could complicate negotiations.
Business leaders and many in civil society want quick results from these talks. Simone Peter, from the renewable energy sector, emphasizes the need for swift action on energy transition and climate policies. Marc Weissgerber from E3G insists that climate neutrality by 2045 should remain a priority for the new government, no matter which parties come together. He highlights the importance of strengthening the EU’s Clean Industrial Deal and taking a proactive stance at the next UN climate conference in Brazil.
Climate change was a huge topic in the last election, but this time, it took a back seat. A survey showed issues like domestic security and social welfare dominated voters’ concerns. Only 13% considered the environment and climate a top priority, down from 22% in 2021.
The SPD, under Chancellor Olaf Scholz, suffered a significant loss, getting only 16.4% of the vote, the lowest since WWII. The Green Party also fell short, securing just 12%. The Free Democrats (FDP) faced a steep drop from 11.5% to 4.6% and will not enter parliament.
On the other hand, the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) saw significant gains, doubling their percentage to 20.5%. Despite scrutiny for extremist views, this trend reflects a wider rise in support for similar parties in Europe, often at odds with ambitious climate goals. However, other leading parties in Germany have ruled out working with the AfD, limiting its influence on the new government.
The Left Party increased its share to 8.6%, while the nationalist-left Sahra Wagenknecht Alliance (BSW) fell short of expectations, receiving 4.9%. The new federal parliament must hold its first session within 30 days after the election, by March 24. In the meantime, the outgoing government will continue to operate until the new leaders are sworn in.
