Policies of Friedrich Merz's Germany's conservatives

German conservatives win election but far-right AfD surges, exit polls show

Germany's conservatives, led by Friedrich Merz, won the national election, positioning him to become the next chancellor. The far-right AfD secured its best-ever result, while coalition talks face challenges over migration and dealing with the AfD in the context of Germany's history.

German snap election: key players and stakes in the battle for future governance

Berlin, February 17, 2025 - German voters head to the polls on February 23 to decide who will lead the country’s next government in a snap election triggered by the collapse of Chancellor Olaf Scholz’s centre-left coalition.

German opposition leader vows to build 50 gas-fired power plants if elected

Germany's opposition leader Friedrich Merz vows to build 50 gas-fired power plants to tackle energy challenges if elected chancellor, citing wind power shortfalls and nuclear plant closures.

German opposition leader Friedrich Merz signals defence spending increase

Friedrich Merz, Germany’s opposition leader and likely next chancellor, has pledged to increase defence spending but declined to commit to NATO’s proposed 5% GDP target, highlighting the need for practical and sustainable measures ahead of February’s parliamentary elections.