In his first government statement in the German Bundestag, Federal Chancellor Friedrich Merz said that he was “wholeheartedly convinced that our great country can overcome the challenges of our time on its own and turn them into something good” – if the Federal Government and the people of the country work together. According to the Chancellor, citizens should feel that progress is being made by the summer, at the latest. 

What does the Federal Government have planned for the coming months? Where are its priorities? What is changing? Chancellor Merz explained this in his speech.

The Federal Chancellor's comments... 

...on Europe

According to the Chancellor, the Federal Government would like to revitalise the European idea of freedom and peace. Germany will be a reliable and stable partner. Germany will take on more responsibility in NATO and the EU, said Merz.

...on Ukraine

According to Chancellor Merz, peace on the European continent is at stake in Ukraine. He seeks a just, lasting and sustainable peace. A dictated peace or the subjugation of Ukraine is out of the question. 

Chancellor Merz is counting on a joint effort by European and American partners to support Ukraine. He said that Germany is standing firm, united and, above all, ready to defend itself against Russian attempts to divide and destabilise Europe and its democracies. 

...on Israel

The Federal Chancellor emphasised: “Israel's existence and security are and remain a raison d’état of our country.” Germany is committed to peace in the region, the release of the Hamas hostages and better provision of humanitarian supplies for the Gaza Strip.

...on defence policy

Germany's defence capabilities and defence readiness will continue to be expanded. Merz summarised the thinking: “We want to be able to defend ourselves so that we don't have to defend ourselves.” Voluntary military service should be introduced for this purpose. The Federal Government will also provide the Bundeswehr with the financial means to become the strongest conventional army in Europe. Germany also seeks to take on more responsibility in NATO and the EU. 

...on the economy

Chancellor Merz plans to get Germany's economy back on track for growth: “We can use our own strength to once again become an engine for growth that the world admires.” Both public investment and a large amount of private investment are needed. The Federal Government intends to promote this investment. The Federal Government would also like to 

• Reduce bureaucracy quickly and tangibly
• Simplify the development of start-ups
• Promote cutting-edge technology

...on labour and the social system

“Performance must be rewarded again,” emphasised Merz – for example through tax relief on overtime and more flexible working hours. A minimum wage of 15 euros is achievable, feasible and desirable, but will not be enshrined in law. The pension level will be secured at 48 per cent through 2031. The Chancellor also identified the following important projects: 

• Reform of the health and care system
• Establishment of a pension commission
• New basic security instead of citizen's benefit
• Affordable housing through increased residential construction

...on domestic safety

Despite the heightened security situation, Germany is still a safe country, said the Chancellor. This is attributable in part to our emergency services. According to Chancellor Merz, the Federal Government will therefore strengthen and better equip security authorities in a targeted manner. He announced a fight against anti-Semitism. “Germany must be a safe space for Jews,” he said.

...on migration

“Germany is a country of immigration,” said Chancellor Merz. Migration policy should be clear, fair and positioned for the benefit of Germany. That means: more limitations, more rejections, more control, more deportations. This approach is not a solo effort on the part of Germany and is in line with European law. Merz also said that integration should both be made possible and also demanded.