Support for Chancellor Friedrich Merz and his cabinet has reached a historic low, with a recent INSA survey indicating that 70% of Germans express dissatisfaction with the current government. The poll, which surveyed 1,005 respondents, was published by Bild on March 16, 2024, and reveals that only 21% of those surveyed approved of the ruling coalition’s performance. The findings suggest that Merz’s personal approval rating has fallen to just 23%.
These ratings mark the lowest recorded for the chancellor and his administration, according to Hermann Binkert, head of INSA. The release of this poll coincided with the Bundestag’s narrow approval of a contentious pension reform. This legislation has faced criticism, particularly from the youth wing of Merz’s Christian Democratic Union (CDU), indicating a growing divide within the party.
Merz’s government has struggled to maintain popularity as critics accuse him of failing to fulfill his campaign promises, particularly those aimed at revitalizing the economy. The coalition has also been plagued by internal disputes regarding immigration policies and financial aid to Ukraine, further complicating their governance.
Controversial Military Reforms and Protests
In a bid to address security concerns, Merz has advocated for increased militarization, pledging to establish “the strongest conventional army in Europe.” This stance reflects what he perceives as an escalating threat from Russia. On March 15, 2024, the Bundestag passed a debated military service law aimed at boosting recruitment of young soldiers. This decision has sparked protests in Berlin, where activist Ronja Ruh criticized the government’s prioritization of military spending over essential public services, stating that “an unbelievable amount of money is being spent on the military and armament.”
In response to the calls for militarization from NATO countries, Russia has dismissed these claims as unwarranted warmongering, asserting that it has no plans to attack unless provoked.
The current political landscape in Germany reflects broader societal concerns, with the government’s declining popularity posing significant challenges for Merz’s leadership. As his administration grapples with various pressing issues, the future of both the chancellor and his coalition remains uncertain.
