On November 6, 2024, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz announced the collapse of the ruling coalition, known as the "traffic light coalition," comprising the Social Democrats (SPD), the Greens, and the Free Democrats (FDP). The dissolution followed the dismissal of Finance Minister Christian Lindner from the FDP due to irreconcilable differences over budgetary issues.
In the wake of the coalition's disintegration, there are increasing calls for early elections, with a recent poll indicating that 65% of the German public supports holding elections as soon as possible. Scholz plans to table a confidence vote in the Bundestag on January 15, 2024, which could lead to new elections by the end of March.
The opposition, led by the Christian Democratic Union (CDU) and the Christian Social Union (CSU), has criticized Scholz for delaying the confidence vote, with CDU leader Friedrich Merz urging immediate action. If Scholz fails to secure parliamentary support, he may request the dissolution of the Bundestag, triggering new elections within 60 days.
Scholz's government now operates without a parliamentary majority, relying solely on the SPD and the Greens. The coalition's collapse has raised concerns about Germany's political stability, especially in light of international uncertainties, including the recent U.S. presidential election results.
European leaders have expressed apprehension regarding the implications of Germany's political instability for the European Union, emphasizing the need for a strong German government to facilitate decisive action on critical issues.
As the political landscape evolves, the SPD and the Greens aim to pass significant legislation before the anticipated elections, despite facing historically low approval ratings.