Coalition Negotiators Face Pressure as Talks Enter Final Round

As coalition negotiations between the CDU, CSU, and SPD approach their final phase, the political landscape is becoming increasingly tense. Recent opinion polls reveal that the AfD has surged to equal footing with the CDU/CSU, prompting concerns within the Union regarding party leadership and strategy.

Starting Monday, the top negotiators from the three parties are set to finalize discussions on a coalition agreement. CDU leader Friedrich Merz faces mounting criticism over his handling of negotiations with the SPD, especially in light of shifting voter sentiments. The AfD, buoyed by a recent poll showing it at 24 percent, now stands alongside the Union, which has raised alarm bells within the party.

CSU leader Markus Söder took to social media to comment on the negotiations, indicating a need for reflection before proceeding with discussions that could determine the future direction of the coalition.

Within the Union, there are fears that Merz may concede significant policy changes on key issues such as migration, economic strategy, and defense. This apprehension is echoed by younger party members, who worry that decisions made in these talks could adversely affect their generation.

Furthermore, the decision to cancel key CDU meetings on the same day as the negotiations has sparked frustration among party ranks. Merz's rationale for this move is reportedly tied to the confidentiality of the discussions with the SPD, which has left many party members in the dark about the progress being made.

Critics, including former Saarland Minister President Peter Müller, argue that the negotiators are straying from the promised political shift that the CDU campaigned on. He notes that despite the electoral backlash against the political center, a substantive policy shift seems more elusive than ever.

Müller insists that the current negotiation outcomes do not align with the Union's commitment to a 'migration turnaround' aimed at increasing skilled labor immigration while reducing illegal entries. He highlights the lack of a coherent economic revival strategy as a significant concern, suggesting that the promises made during the campaign are not being upheld.

In response to internal dissatisfaction, Union leaders are attempting to reassure party members by promising a noticeable shift in policy once negotiations conclude with the SPD. CDU General Secretary Carsten Linnemann remarked on the urgency of delivering tangible results, acknowledging the disappointing polling figures and the need for action.

Parliamentary Secretary Thorsten Frei expressed optimism about reaching an agreement in the upcoming week, emphasizing the importance of concluding talks promptly yet effectively. He assured party members that essential changes in economic, migration, and defense policies would follow the establishment of the new government.

Meanwhile, the SPD leadership is also feeling the pressure as they recognize the implications of the AfD's rising popularity. Co-chair Saskia Esken underscored the necessity of delivering on promises to diminish the AfD's influence, stressing the importance of finalizing a coalition agreement that addresses pressing societal concerns.

If the CDU, CSU, and SPD can finalize their coalition agreement this week, the SPD plans to seek member approval within two weeks. The CDU is also facing calls for a member consultation. According to party statutes, a small party congress will review the negotiation outcomes, with a potential date set for April 28.

Following the coalition's formation, Merz is expected to attend a congress of the European People's Party in Valencia on April 29 and 30, where discussions on the future trajectory of the European Union will take place. The date for Merz's potential election and swearing-in as Chancellor is tentatively set for May 7.