German CDU/CSU and SPD Reach Preliminary Coalition Agreement, Focus on Border Control and Economic Growth

The German CDU/CSU and SPD have reached a preliminary agreement on a future coalition, focusing on strengthening border controls and returning migrants. The agreement, announced on March 8, 2025, will serve as the basis for detailed coalition negotiations. Key points include significantly enhanced border controls, increased returns of migrants, and potential returns of asylum seekers in coordination with neighboring countries. Restrictions on family reunification for refugees in Germany are also planned, along with an "offensive return" policy targeting migrants without residency rights, including deportations to Afghanistan and Syria. Economic measures are aimed at boosting Germany's economy, targeting a GDP growth rate of at least 1-2%. These include corporate tax cuts, energy cost reductions, and investment incentives. Infrastructure improvements, particularly transport connections with Poland and the Czech Republic, are also planned. Social policy reforms include replacing the citizen's allowance for the unemployed with a "basic security" system for job seekers. Benefits will be withdrawn from individuals who refuse to accept employment.