Fri Feb 28 03:00:00 UTC 2025: ## Germany’s Election Yields Conservative Victory, Far-Right Surge

**Berlin, Germany** – Germany’s federal elections, held on February 23rd, saw a record-breaking 82.5% voter turnout, resulting in a victory for the conservative Christian Democratic Union (CDU) and Christian Social Union (CSU) bloc. However, the election’s most significant outcome is the substantial rise of the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD), which secured the second-largest share of the vote.

The CDU/CSU, while winning the most votes, fell short of a majority, necessitating coalition negotiations. Their path to forming a government is complicated by the AfD’s strong showing and the mainstream parties’ refusal to cooperate with them. The Social Democrats (SPD), despite placing third, remain a potential coalition partner, although significant ideological differences exist between them and the CDU/CSU on issues like taxes, social welfare, and immigration.

The AfD’s success is attributed to several factors, including public anxieties over immigration following recent attacks and dissatisfaction with mainstream parties. Their hardline stance on immigration resonated with voters, particularly in East Germany where unemployment is high. The party also effectively utilized social media to reach younger demographics.

Key election issues included immigration policy, economic revival, and foreign policy, particularly concerning Ukraine and NATO. While most parties supported Ukraine and increased NATO defense spending, the AfD opposed military aid and favored closer ties with Russia. Economic debates centered on the debt brake law, with the CDU/CSU and FDP favoring stricter adherence while the SPD and Greens advocated for more flexibility.

Germany’s electoral reform, implemented in 2025, played a significant role. The new system, eliminating “overhang seats” and requiring parties to win at least 5% of the vote for parliamentary representation, contributed to the current political landscape. The two-vote system – one for a district candidate and another for party proportional representation – further complicates coalition building.

The ongoing coalition talks are crucial for Germany’s political future. While a CDU/CSU-SPD coalition is possible, bridging the ideological gaps will require intense negotiations. The CDU leader, Friedrich Merz, has described the situation as a “last chance” to prevent the further growth of the AfD. The AfD, however, believes a political shift is already underway. The outcome of these negotiations will significantly shape Germany’s political direction in the coming years.

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