256 Delegates Gather for Intensive Coalition Negotiations

Today marks the commencement of significant coalition negotiations in Germany, as representatives from the Union and SPD convene for the first time. This critical meeting involves a meticulously organized process, with 256 delegates split into 16 working groups, each comprising 16 members. The composition of each group follows a structured distribution: six delegates from the CDU, three from the CSU, and six from the SPD.

The aim is to finalize the coalition agreement by April 23, with Friedrich Merz expected to be elected as Chancellor. An internal document outlining the negotiation framework reveals that discussions will occur daily from 11 AM to 5 PM. Each working group is tasked with presenting an initial agenda by the upcoming Sunday, and all groups must conclude their work by 5 PM on March 24.

The organization of these negotiations is notably thorough. Delegates are instructed to communicate their catering preferences to their respective teams, with expenses to be submitted to the party headquarters. Interestingly, the guidelines also prohibit any media engagement, including press statements, interim announcements, and even selfies.

In terms of documentation, working groups must adhere to specific formatting standards akin to academic requirements, detailing font size, color, and line spacing for their final reports. This strict oversight raises questions about whether Merz, following his recent acknowledgments regarding budgetary constraints and migration issues, will yield to SPD demands on such procedural matters.

While the negotiations are being organized with precision, uncertainties remain regarding financial aspects. Current debt plans are under review by the Federal Constitutional Court in Karlsruhe, and the Greens have expressed reservations. Their support will be crucial for the success of a proposed EUR900 billion program requiring a two-thirds majority in the Bundestag.