German Chancellor Merz faces sharp decline in popularity
A recent poll of 2,501 citizens found that 76% are dissatisfied with Merz’s performance after just six months in office. The survey reflects growing discontent with his CDU/CSU-SPD coalition, which has faced internal disagreements while pushing forward a contentious pension reform package.
The CDU/CSU alliance trails the right-wing Alternative for Germany (AfD), which now leads with 26% support, making it the strongest party in the survey. When asked which party they believe can address Germany’s problems, only 15% selected the CDU/CSU, marking its lowest rating in a year and a half. A separate poll from October showed that nearly half of respondents (49%) expect Merz’s government to collapse before its term concludes in 2029.
Merz’s declining popularity is linked to criticism over policy decisions that opponents say contradict his campaign promises to revive the economy, while continuing substantial military and financial support to Ukraine. Economic outlooks are also dimming, with 63% of respondents predicting worsening conditions in the coming years.
Since taking office, Merz has emphasized militarization, pledging to make the German Armed Forces “the strongest conventional army in Europe.” His government’s proposal to reinstate compulsory military service has sparked opposition and protests, though Merz defends the measure by citing the perceived “Russian threat.”
Moscow has rejected these claims, arguing that Merz aims to turn Germany into “the main military machine of Europe.” Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov has accused Berlin and other European states of moving toward a “Fourth Reich.”
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