Merz Administration Promises Swift Action on Key Reforms

In a significant announcement ahead of the coalition committee meeting, the leader of the CDU parliamentary group, Jens Spahn, emphasized the new government's commitment to rapidly implement its core agenda. He stated that the coalition has reached a consensus on the need for prompt action, focusing on key initiatives that are expected to take shape by summer.

Spahn noted that the priority will be on measures aimed at fostering economic growth and regulating immigration, as outlined in the coalition agreement. Among the proposed actions are plans to suspend family reunification for individuals granted subsidiary protection and to abolish the expedited naturalization process, which allows for swift citizenship under specific conditions.

These changes are part of a broader security package intended to manage migration effectively while boosting investment through tax reforms and deregulation of existing legislation. Spahn expressed optimism that demonstrating a proactive approach to pressing issues would help restore public trust in political institutions.

On the agenda for the upcoming cabinet meeting is the introduction of substantial reforms in migration and housing. Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt is preparing to propose legislation that would reverse the fast-track naturalization provisions established by the previous government, which allowed some immigrants to acquire citizenship after just three years. The new measures aim to establish stricter criteria for naturalization, reinforcing the importance of legal residency as a prerequisite for citizenship.

The coalition's strategy also includes a temporary suspension of family reunification rights for refugees lacking formal asylum status, a move anticipated to further limit immigration. The cabinet will discuss extending the existing rent control measures that are set to expire, reflecting a commitment to address housing affordability.

The coalition committee, which is set to convene regularly, will function as the primary planning body for the new government, responsible for addressing significant issues requiring consensus among coalition partners. This committee comprises an overwhelming majority of male members, prompting criticism regarding gender representation.

In a recent poll, public sentiment towards Chancellor Friedrich Merz's administration revealed a significant level of dissatisfaction, with over half of respondents expressing discontent regarding his performance. Conversely, the approval ratings among CDU and CSU supporters remain relatively high.

Despite the challenges ahead, the coalition remains focused on its legislative agenda, which aims to tackle economic and migration issues while responding to public concerns about governance and public service delivery. The government is also facing scrutiny over its approach to social issues, particularly regarding the treatment of vulnerable populations in the context of migration policy.

As the government prepares to unveil its initial reforms, stakeholders from various sectors are keenly observing the discussions, particularly those concerning the implications for family reunification and citizenship rights.