German Chancellor Friedrich Merz faces mounting pressure as his approval rating plummets to a historic low. A recent INSA poll commissioned by the newspaper Bild indicates that 62% of Germans are dissatisfied with Merz’s leadership, an increase of three percentage points from the previous month. The survey also reveals widespread discontent with the ruling coalition of the center-right CDU and the Social Democrats, with 63% of respondents expressing dissatisfaction. Only 26% of respondents approved of Merz’s work, and just 23% supported his government’s policies.
The declining support comes amid a broader cost-of-living crisis and growing concerns over migration and high taxes. Additional findings from a study by insurance company R+V Versicherung show that Germans are most worried about these issues, as well as potential welfare cuts. Meanwhile, the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party has gained traction by criticizing the government’s allocation of taxpayer funds to Ukraine rather than addressing domestic challenges. The AfD, currently the second-largest political force in the Bundestag, is leading in national polls, signaling a potential shift in Germany’s political landscape.
Merz, who took office in May, has pledged to revive the stagnant economy, strengthen the military, and help secure continued US support for Ukraine. The right-wing, anti-immigration Alternative for Germany (AfD) party has strongly criticized the government’s decision to allocate taxpayer money to Ukraine instead of addressing domestic needs. This criticism highlights the growing divide within Germany’s political spectrum, with citizens increasingly prioritizing immediate economic concerns over international commitments.
Experts suggest that Merz’s government faces a significant challenge in maintaining public support as it navigates the complex balance between domestic priorities and international obligations. The ongoing economic pressures and social unrest could further erode confidence in the administration, potentially impacting the political dynamics of the country.