Germany

Germany is set to hold early federal elections on Sunday 23 February, following the collapse of the coalition government formed by the Social Democrats (SPD), Greens and Free Democrats (FDP) in November 2024. A total of 29 parties have qualified to compete in the election, though only nine will be on the ballot nationwide. These include the CDU/CSU, SPD, Greens, …

With less than two weeks to the federal election, former Member of the European Parliament, Dr Pierrette Herzberger-Fofana, warns of the danger of deep polarisation of society as a result of the instrumentalisation of the issue of migration. The first Afro-German politician to represent Germany in the European Parliament makes a case for a debate on migration that respects the …

Former Member of the European Parliament, Dr Pierrette Herzberger-Fofana, writes about the recent support of the far-right AfD for CDU-backed bills in the federal parliament—a development that has drawn widespread condemnation of the conservative party. The Green politician warns that sacrificing a key consensus in German politics for electoral gains could undermine fundamental democratic principles —— Political alliance of the …

The number of married people continues to fall in Germany. According to a new report by the Federal Statistical Office (Destatis), by the end of 2023, approximately 35 million individuals aged 18 and over were married, accounting for just over 50% of the adult population. This marks a significant decrease from 1993, when about 39.3 million adults, or 60% of …

Several legal changes will take effect in Germany starting February 2025, impacting areas such as artificial intelligence, energy, salaries, television costs and elections. Here is an overview of the key changes: 1. Restrictions on Certain AI Applications As from 2February 2025, specific artificial intelligence systems will be prohibited due to concerns over fundamental rights. This includes AI technologies that manipulate …

Germany has seen a sharp decline in net migration in 2024, according to preliminary estimates from the Federal Statistical Office (Destatis). The number of people arriving in the country exceeded those leaving by approximately 400,000 to 440,000—marking a 34% drop compared to 2023. This decrease signals a return to pre-2022 migration levels, following a peak driven by the large-scale arrival …

Germany is observing Black History Month (BHM) this February with a range of events celebrating the culture, history and contributions of people of African descent. Originally an American tradition, the Month has steadily gained recognition in Germany, with various organizations and communities hosting programs that highlight both historical narratives and contemporary issues faced by Black people in the country. In …

Friedrich Merz, leader of Germany’s Christian Democratic Union (CDU) and chancellor candidate, has introduced a five-point plan aimed at tightening migration policies. His proposals include permanent border controls and the swift deportation of individuals attempting to enter Germany without valid documentation. However, the Social Democratic Party (SPD) and the Greens have raised legal concerns, arguing that Merz’s measures conflict with …

On 25 January 2025, tens of thousands of demonstrators gathered at Berlin’s iconic Brandenburg Gate for a protest dubbed the “Sea of Lights Against the Right-Wing Shift.” The event was organized in response to the growing influence of right-wing extremism and aimed to highlight the importance of preserving democratic values. Participants illuminated the area with candles, phone lights and LED …

The term “biodeutsch,” loosely meaning “organically German,” has been selected as Germany’s ‘Unword of the Year’ for 2024. This designation (Das Unwort des Jahres in German)  highlights words or expressions that promote discrimination, undermine human dignity or mislead public discourse. The term was criticized for its use in dividing individuals based on perceived biological heritage, fostering everyday racism, and creating …

At a special party congress in Berlin on Saturday, 11 January, the Social Democratic Party (SPD) formally announced Chancellor Olaf Scholz as their candidate for Germany’s upcoming federal election on 23 February. Scholz’s candidacy was approved by delegates with overwhelming support, following weeks of internal debates over whether Defence Minister Boris Pistorius, who enjoys greater popularity, should replace him as …

  The Forum der Kulturen Stuttgart e.V., in collaboration with four (post-)migrant organizations from Stuttgart, has published a multilingual children’s book titled “Stuttgart, das sind wir! Eine Reise um die Welt” (Stuttgart, that is us! A Journey Around the World). The book will be officially launched at a public event on 21 February at the Stuttgart City Library. The book …

The German government has approved a fresh set of Africa policy guidelines aimed at reshaping its engagement with the continent. However, reactions have been mixed, with industry leaders and analysts questioning the effectiveness and timeliness of the new strategy. A changing perspective on Africa For years, Africa played a peripheral role in German foreign policy. This is changing as the …

From consumer rights to healthcare, the new year ushers in many significant changes for residents of Germany. In 2025, social security contributions, the minimum wage and housing benefits will all increase. Parents will also be able to deduct higher childcare expenses from their taxes. The introduction of the electronic patient file is set to transform healthcare, while a new recycling …

Germany is gearing up for early general elections after President Frank-Walter Steinmeier announced the dissolution of the Bundestag, the country’s lower house of parliament, on 27 December 2024. This marks the beginning of an accelerated political transition, with the snap election scheduled for 23 February 2025. Countdown to the Polls In his official statement, President Steinmeier emphasized the importance of …

German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier undertook a four-day visit to Africa from 10 to 14 December, focusing on strengthening Germany’s ties with Nigeria, South Africa and Lesotho. His trip underscored Germany’s commitment to enhancing economic cooperation, supporting political reforms and promoting sustainable development across the continent, the German presidency said. Nigeria: Energy and Economic Cooperation Steinmeier began his tour in Nigeria, …

As expected, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz has lost a vote of confidence in the Bundestag, setting the stage for early federal elections. The motion, held on Monday (16 December), saw 394 members of parliament voting against Scholz, while only 207 supported him, and 116 abstained. The result fell far short of the 367 votes needed to secure a majority, effectively …

The acquittal of five police officers involved in the fatal shooting of 16-year-old Mouhamed Dramé in Dortmund has sparked widespread disappointment and outrage, particularly within the African community in Germany. The verdict, delivered by a regional court on on 12 December, exonerated the officers, citing self-defence as the basis for their actions. This controversial ruling raises questions about police accountability …

Germany is gearing up for snap federal elections on 23 February 2025 after the collapse of Chancellor Olaf Scholz’s three-party coalition of the SPD, Greens and FDP. The breakup followed the sack of ex-Finance Minister Christian Lindner of the FDP in early November, after months of internal disputes, primarily over the 2025 budget, which culminated in the FDP withdrawal from …

As Germany grapples with a labour shortage exacerbated by an aging population, migrants fill essential gaps, contributing significantly to various industries. However, their working and living conditions often remain precarious, raising critical questions about ethical migration policies. A significant event addressing Germany’s labour market and immigration policies will take place on 6 December 2024. Organized by the Heinrich-Böll-Stiftung in Berlin, …