Germany's political scene is buzzing with activity, from activist groups shifting strategies to ongoing negotiations following the recent federal election. Here's a look at some of the key developments.
Last Generation Rebrands, Plans Direct Action
The activist group Last Generation is reinventing itself, adopting a new name and a more direct approach to politics. They plan to establish 'Parliaments of the People' to push for change. According to activist Raphael Thelen, if government bodies don't respond, civil disobedience is on the table. It seems they are ready to take matters into their own hands to make their voices heard.
Post-Election Exploratory Talks Continue
Following the 2025 Bundestag election, exploratory talks between the Union and the SPD are set to continue next week. CSU Chairman Markus Söder has emphasized the SPD's role as a "state-bearing and dependable force against the right." These negotiations are reportedly taking place in a "constructive atmosphere," with nine negotiators from each side participating. The discussions also include the possibility of establishing multi-billion-euro special funds.
Jörg Kukies, Federal Minister of Finance, was spotted arriving at the Jakob-Kaiser-Haus for initial exploratory talks. These talks mark a crucial step in forming a new government and setting the direction for Germany's future.
Economists Urge Swift Action on Defense Spending
Leading economists, including Monika Schnitzer, are calling on the future chancellor to act quickly in response to escalating global tensions. They argue that "delaying would be fatal" and advocate for a significant increase in defense funding. This could involve boosting the Bundeswehr's special fund or creating a new defense fund altogether. The economists believe that a strong and decisive response is needed to address the current geopolitical challenges.
Warning Strikes Loom in Public Sector
Adding to the political landscape, negotiations are set to resume in just over a week for approximately 2.5 million public service employees in Germany. Before these talks, warning strikes are planned, raising questions about whether a resolution is within reach. The outcome of these negotiations could have significant implications for the public sector and the German economy.
The coming weeks promise to be eventful as these various political threads continue to unfold. Keep an eye on our live blog for the latest updates.
Stay tuned for more updates as these political situations develop.