The 2017 German Federal Election: A Crossroads for Europe and the Fate of Angela Merkel
The 2017 German federal election was a momentous event, not just for Germany but for the entire European Union. This election served as a crucial test for the established political order in Germany and Europe at large, grappling with complex issues such as the refugee crisis, economic anxieties, and rising populism. Angela Merkel, the Chancellor of Germany since 2005, was seeking a fourth term amidst a volatile political landscape marked by the rise of the right-wing Alternative for Germany (AfD).
The road leading to the 2017 election was paved with challenges. The refugee crisis of 2015, which saw over a million asylum seekers arrive in Germany, had deeply divided German society. While Merkel’s decision to open Germany’s borders to refugees was lauded by many as an act of humanitarianism and leadership, it also fuelled anti-immigration sentiments and provided fertile ground for the AfD’s rise. The AfD, founded in 2013 as a Eurosceptic party, gained significant traction by capitalizing on anxieties about immigration, national identity, and economic insecurity.
Economic concerns further added to the complexity of the political landscape. While Germany boasted a robust economy compared to other European nations, inequalities had been widening, leaving some segments of society feeling left behind. The rise of globalization and automation fueled fears about job losses, particularly in traditionally industrial regions. This discontent contributed to a sense of disillusionment with established parties and opened the door for populist alternatives like the AfD.
The 2017 election campaign was characterized by fierce debates on immigration, social welfare, and the future of the European Union. Merkel’s CDU/CSU alliance campaigned on a platform of stability and continuity, emphasizing her experience and leadership in navigating Germany through turbulent times. However, they faced a strong challenge from the AfD, which promised stricter immigration policies and a more nationalist approach. Other parties, such as the Social Democratic Party (SPD) and the Greens, also vied for voters’ support, presenting alternative visions for Germany’s future.
On election day, September 24, 2017, German voters headed to the polls with a sense of uncertainty about the outcome. The results revealed a fragmented political landscape:
| Party | Percentage of Votes | Seats in Bundestag |
|---|---|---|
| CDU/CSU | 33.0% | 246 |
| SPD | 20.5% | 153 |
| AfD | 12.6% | 94 |
| Greens | 8.9% | 67 |
| FDP | 10.7% | 80 |
The results underscored the profound political shift underway in Germany. While Merkel’s CDU/CSU emerged as the largest party, they lost significant ground compared to previous elections. The AfD secured a historic entry into the Bundestag, becoming the third-largest party. This success for the right-wing populist party reflected the anxieties and grievances of a segment of German society concerned about immigration and social change.
The fragmented nature of the election results made forming a coalition government complex. Merkel sought to form a grand coalition with the SPD, similar to the one that governed Germany from 2013 to 2017. However, this proved to be a protracted and challenging negotiation process. Ultimately, after months of talks, a coalition agreement was reached in February 2018, paving the way for Merkel’s fourth term as Chancellor.
The 2017 German federal election had far-reaching consequences for Germany and Europe.
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Rise of Populism: The AfD’s entry into the Bundestag signified the growing influence of populism across Europe. It underscored the dissatisfaction with traditional political parties and highlighted concerns about immigration, national identity, and economic inequality.
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Weakening of Established Parties: The decline in support for both the CDU/CSU and SPD demonstrated a weakening of the established political order. This opened up space for new political forces and alternative visions for Germany’s future.
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Continued Challenges: The coalition government faced significant challenges, including managing the refugee crisis, addressing economic inequalities, and navigating the complexities of Brexit. These issues continued to test the unity of the governing coalition and underscored the ongoing debates within German society.
The 2017 German federal election served as a crucial turning point in Germany’s recent history. It highlighted the evolving political landscape and the challenges facing democratic societies in an era of globalization, social change, and rising populism. While Merkel managed to secure a fourth term, her victory was far from decisive. The fragmentation of the political system and the rise of the AfD underscored the deep divisions within German society and the need for political leaders to address the concerns and anxieties fueling populist sentiment.