Under pressure: Can Merz steer Germany through 2026? | Berlin Briefing Podcast

Germany is entering a defining political year with five regional elections that could reshape the country’s balance of power. As global tensions disrupt energy markets and fuel prices fluctuate, voters are turning their attention to the leaders who can navigate economic uncertainty and deliver stability. One race capturing international attention was the Greens’ victory in Baden‑Württemberg, driven in part by the strong public appeal of figures like Cem Özdemir, whose profile helped energize a neck‑and‑neck contest. At the same time, the Social Democrats' (SPD's) weakening position raises questions about the federal government’s capacity to push through reforms, especially as debates over how to stabilize the economy continue.

In this episode, Berlin Briefing host Nina Haase and her guests Michaela Küfner, Giulia Saudelli and Max Hofmann explore:

Why Germany’s five 2026 regional elections matter far beyond national borders

How charismatic leadership is reshaping regional politics

What the Greens’ momentum and SPD’s struggles signal for Germany’s future

And how political shifts intersect with broader economic pressures

Chapters:

[Chapter 1: 00:00 – 03:18] A Weakened Economy Under New Stress

[Chapter 2: 03:19 – 06:31] SPD under Pressure

[Chapter 3: 06:32 – 08:01] Why Voters Shifted to the Greens

[Chapter 4: 08:02 – 10:15] The Rise of Cem Özdemir

[Chapter 5: 10:16 – 12:06] Campaign Strategy

[Chapter 6: 12:07 – 13:44] Election Night Dynamics

[Chapter 7: 13:45 – 18:38] Coalition Impact

[Chapter 8: 18:39 – 24:58] The AfD and the Firewall

[Chapter 9: 24:59 – 27:19] Keeping Germany Economically Attractive

[Chapter 10: 27:20 – 31:00] The Need to Be Pragmatic

[Chapter 11: 29:01 – 31:21] Merz’s (Inter)National Route

[Chapter 12: 31:22 – 32:59] Upcoming State Election

[Chapter 13: 33:00 – 35:52] Germany at a Political Crossroads

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