Germany’s election on Sunday has become a focal point for Europe and the U.S., as the nation grapples with economic instability and heightened security concerns following a series of deadly attacks. 

With migration and crime at the forefront of political debate, 69-year-old conservative leader Friedrich Merz is in a strong position to succeed Chancellor Olaf Scholz, whose government collapsed last year.

Merz, leading the Christian Democrats (CDU), has promised rapid reforms to address Germany's economic challenges, including its deteriorating infrastructure. 

However, if his party wins, he will need to build a coalition, likely with Scholz's Social Democrats. 

Merz has ruled out any deal with the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD), which is projected to become the second-largest party in the Bundestag.

Approximately 59.2 million Germans are eligible to vote, with a significant portion still undecided. 

Voting begins at 08:00 (07:00 GMT) and ends at 18:00, with results expected by the evening.

The election is crucial not only for Germany but also for its role on the global stage, particularly in relation to its military and stance on Ukraine. 

Germany’s growing ties with the U.S. and its support for Ukraine are expected to influence the next government's foreign policy.

At the heart of the AfD's rise are frustrations over migration and security, fueled by recent attacks allegedly linked to immigrants. 

The party's controversial "remigration" policy, advocating for the deportation of criminals, resonates in cities like Duisburg, where economic decline and a lack of opportunities have fueled support for the AfD.

With the election poised to reshape Germany’s future, analysts predict a challenging path ahead for coalition-building, as several smaller parties risk failing to meet the 5% threshold for parliamentary representation.

Source: BBC

BDST: 1217 HRS, FEB 23, 2025
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