Friedrich Merz Leads Germany as Immigration Debate and Far-Right Rise Clash

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Key Takeaways

Friedrich Merz became Germany’s next chancellor after the 2025 election, with the CDU winning 28.5% of the vote.
His campaign emphasized stricter immigration laws, aligning with Denmark’s policies, and increasing border controls amid criticism of AfD collaboration.
Merz faces challenges like countering AfD’s influence, balancing immigration perspectives, and building a coalition with Social Democrats.

Friedrich Merz is set to lead Germany 🇩🇪 into a new political chapter as its next chancellor following the 2025 federal election. Leading the Christian Democratic Union (CDU), Merz and his party secured 28.5% of the vote, marking a major shift away from the centrist policies associated with former Chancellor Angela Merkel. At the same time, the election spotlighted the growing influence of the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD), which finished second—a development that has sparked widespread concerns both in Germany and beyond.

Merz’s journey to the chancellorship has been defined by his sharp focus on conservative policies, particularly on immigration. Central to his campaign was a five-point migration plan calling for tougher immigration laws and stricter asylum procedures. Merz believes the current EU-wide immigration system is not functioning effectively, arguing that firmer measures are needed to address problems such as violence involving asylum seekers. He has expressed admiration for Denmark’s zero-tolerance immigration stance under Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen, suggesting that Germany might benefit from a similar approach.

Friedrich Merz Leads Germany as Immigration Debate and Far-Right Rise Clash

One particularly controversial aspect of Merz’s campaign was his commitment to increasing border controls and turning more migrants away at Germany’s borders. This initiative received narrow parliamentary approval, but the path to success sparked controversy. To push his motion through, he secured votes from the far-right AfD—an act some saw as breaking an unwritten rule in German politics. Responding to criticism, including strong opposition from Merkel, Merz denied any wrongdoing and firmly stated he would not actively collaborate with the AfD if elected chancellor.

The rise of the AfD has put Merz under considerable pressure to appeal to conservative voters who might otherwise turn to the far-right party. The AfD, with its strict anti-immigration stance, has gained significant ground, and Merz’s hardline policies on migration appear to be a calculated effort to counter this trend. Critics, however, worry that such measures might alienate voters who supported Merkel’s more moderate approach, adding layers of complexity to Germany’s political landscape.

Friedrich Merz’s political path is not new but has seen its share of ups and downs. Originally entering the national parliament (Bundestag) in 1994, Merz quickly gained recognition as a financial expert within the CDU. By 2000, he had climbed to chair the CDU/CSU parliamentary group, placing himself in direct rivalry with Merkel for leadership within the party. However, Merkel’s ascendancy left Merz sidelined, and by 2009, he withdrew entirely from parliament to pursue a legal career.

During his time away from politics, Merz built an impressive resume in the private sector. He worked as a senior counsel at the global law firm Mayer Brown and held corporate roles, most notably at BlackRock Germany. These ventures made him financially successful—he is often described as a multimillionaire—and drew scrutiny over whether his deep ties to the business world might create conflicts of interest in his political career.

Returning to politics in 2018, Merz staged three bids for CDU leadership before finally succeeding in January 2022. His victory marked a turn in the party’s direction, with Merz promising to differentiate the CDU from the more centrist policies of Merkel’s tenure. Ideologically, he identifies as socially conservative and economically liberal, advocating for free-market principles and limited government intervention. Merz’s views are further reflected in his book, “Mehr Kapitalismus wagen” (Venturing More Capitalism), which underscores his belief in capitalism as a driving force for prosperity.

Aside from domestic policy, Merz supports strong European unity and a close relationship with NATO. Describing himself as both a committed European and a transatlantic ally, Merz has stressed the importance of maintaining positive ties with the United States 🇺🇸. However, he has expressed concern over waning U.S. interest in Europe and believes Germany must work to safeguard its security, especially given ongoing tensions such as the war in Ukraine.

As he steps into his new role, Merz faces major challenges. Domestically, many Germans are deeply divided on the issue of immigration. While some support stricter rules, others see them as a betrayal of Germany’s humanitarian obligations. Striking a balance that addresses the concerns of both sides will be no easy task. Moreover, the CDU’s victory does not mean a free hand for Merz. Likely needing to form a coalition government with the center-left Social Democrats, he will have to navigate a fragmented political environment and build consensus while pursuing his vision.

Economically, Merz has promised to revive Germany’s sluggish economy. With experience in corporate law and finance, he has indicated plans for significant economic reforms, though specifics remain to be seen. Observers are closely watching to understand how his policies might impact Germany’s social safety net and its position as Europe’s economic powerhouse. His leadership style, which is often seen as more confrontational than Merkel’s, might provoke greater debate within the Bundestag over these issues in the coming years.

Internationally, maintaining Germany’s role as a global leader will demand careful diplomacy. On one hand, Merz must address concerns about the increasing division within the European Union 🇪🇺 while continuing to advocate for Germany’s national interests. On the other, growing geopolitical tensions—particularly in relations with Russia 🇷🇺 and the United States—will require thoughtful and steady leadership. With the war in Ukraine ongoing, Merz inherits a dynamic and challenging global stage.

The rise of the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) in this election reflects broader trends seen not just in Germany but across Europe. Anti-immigration sentiments and dissatisfaction with the political establishment have fueled support for parties that challenge mainstream norms. For Merz, successfully countering the influence of the AfD while addressing constituents’ fears will shape his legacy as chancellor. This task places him at the intersection of preserving democratic values and responding to public frustration—two objectives that are not always easily reconciled.

While his platform’s conservative tone has garnered both support and criticism, there is no doubt that Merz is steering Germany into a new political era. For supporters, he represents decisive leadership and much-needed reform. For his critics, there are fears he is pulling Germany too far to the right or aligning too closely with policies resembling those of the AfD. Where he takes Germany during his tenure will not just influence domestic issues but could impact Europe’s future on matters like migration, economic policies, and international cooperation.

Merz’s ascension also carries weighty implications for global affairs. Germany, as Europe’s largest economy and a leading voice in the European Union, plays a critical role in matters extending beyond its borders. How Merz chooses to engage with transatlantic partners, define Germany’s stance within the EU, and address pressing challenges like climate change and post-pandemic recovery will affect not just his nation but global politics as well.

As outlined by VisaVerge.com, Friedrich Merz’s emergence as chancellor comes during an unusually tense period for Germany. His leadership will be tested across multiple dimensions, from navigating immigration reforms to steering Germany’s position on the world stage. What remains certain is that his policies, choices, and alliances will define Germany’s direction and ripple across Europe 🇪🇺 for years to come.

For up-to-date information regarding immigration policies or official applications, you can explore this page from Germany’s Federal Office for Migration and Refugees: BAMF Official Site.

Learn Today

Chancellorship → The position or office of a chancellor, acting as the head of government in countries like Germany.
Asylum Procedures → Processes through which individuals seek refuge in a country, claiming protection due to persecution in their homeland.
Coalition Government → A governance system formed by multiple political parties cooperating to achieve a working majority in parliament.
Zero-tolerance Immigration Stance → Strict immigration policies allowing minimal exceptions for migrants, typically aimed at deterring unlawful entry.
Transatlantic Ally → A nation maintaining close diplomatic, economic, or security ties with countries across the Atlantic Ocean, notably Europe and the U.S.

This Article in a Nutshell

Friedrich Merz ushers Germany into a pivotal political shift. With a conservative vision prioritizing migration reform and economic revitalization, his CDU-led government faces challenges unifying a divided nation. Rising far-right influence complicates matters, and Merz’s leadership will shape not only Germany’s future but Europe’s trajectory amid global tensions. All eyes are watching.
— By VisaVerge.com