The 2018 German Federal Election: A Tight Race and a Shift in Political Landscape

The 2018 German Federal Election: A Tight Race and a Shift in Political Landscape

Germany, known for its robust democratic traditions and stable political system, witnessed a momentous event in 2018 – the federal election. This election proved to be anything but ordinary, marking a significant shift in the country’s political landscape. While Angela Merkel secured her fourth term as Chancellor, the results underscored the growing fragmentation of the German electorate and the rise of new political forces.

Understanding the causes behind this electoral upheaval requires delving into the context of post-2015 Germany. The influx of refugees during the European migrant crisis had sparked heated debates and exposed deep divisions within society. While Merkel’s “open door” policy initially garnered widespread support, it also fuelled the rise of anti-immigration sentiment and the popularity of right-wing populist parties like the Alternative for Germany (AfD).

Adding to the complexity was the ongoing economic disparity between regions and the perception that globalization had left some behind. These underlying social tensions created a fertile ground for dissatisfaction with the status quo, paving the way for a more volatile political climate.

The 2018 election itself was characterized by intense campaigning from all major parties. Merkel’s Christian Democratic Union (CDU), facing its lowest approval ratings in years, emphasized stability and experience. The Social Democratic Party (SPD), her long-standing coalition partner, struggled to differentiate itself from the CDU, ultimately suffering heavy losses.

Meanwhile, the Green Party capitalized on growing concerns about climate change and social justice, attracting a younger generation of voters. The Free Democratic Party (FDP) returned to parliament after a four-year absence, promising market liberalization and fiscal conservatism.

But it was the AfD that emerged as the real disruptor in this election. Campaigning on an anti-immigration platform and exploiting fears about national identity, they secured nearly 13% of the vote, making them the third-largest party in parliament. This unprecedented success shattered the traditional two-party system and sent shockwaves through German politics.

Consequences of the 2018 Election

The consequences of the 2018 federal election were far-reaching:

  • Prolonged Coalition Negotiations:

Due to the fragmented electoral landscape, forming a stable government proved incredibly challenging. It took over six months of negotiations for Merkel’s CDU to agree on a coalition with the SPD. This protracted process highlighted the deep political divisions within Germany and the difficulty in finding common ground among diverging ideologies.

  • Rise of Populism: The AfD’s electoral success solidified the rise of right-wing populism in Germany. Their anti-immigration rhetoric resonated with a segment of the population disillusioned with traditional parties, raising concerns about the future of social cohesion and tolerance.

  • Renewed Focus on Social Issues:

The election also underscored the need for political parties to address pressing social issues such as economic inequality, climate change, and digitalization. These concerns became central themes in subsequent policy debates, forcing a broader conversation about Germany’s future direction.
Party Percentage of Votes
CDU/CSU 33.0%
SPD 20.5%
The Greens 8.9%
FDP 10.7%
AfD 12.6%

Looking Ahead:

The 2018 German federal election marked a turning point in the country’s political history. While Merkel ultimately remained Chancellor, the fragmentation of the electorate and the rise of populist forces signaled a profound shift in the political landscape. The long-term consequences of this election remain to be seen, but it undoubtedly set the stage for a more dynamic and complex future for German politics.

The events of 2018 serve as a reminder that even established democracies are susceptible to change and upheaval. As societies grapple with global challenges like migration, inequality, and technological disruption, political systems must adapt and respond to evolving needs and aspirations.