Berlin, February 23, 2025 – The final results of Germany’s federal election have been confirmed, revealing a dynamic shift in the country’s political landscape. The Christian Democratic Union/Christian Social Union (CDU/CSU), under the leadership of Friedrich Merz, has emerged as the largest party, securing 208 seats with 28.5% of the vote. The far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD), led by Alice Weidel, follows with 151 seats and 20.7% of the vote, marking a significant presence in the Bundestag despite concerns over some party members being labeled as Nazi sympathizers, a controversy that has drawn widespread criticism.
The Social Democratic Party (SPD), led by Olaf Scholz, secured 121 seats with 16.5%, while the Greens, under Robert Habeck, captured 85 seats with 11.7%. Die Linke, led by Heidi Reichinnek and Jan van Aken, experienced a notable surge, gaining 64 seats with 8.7% of the vote, signaling a strong resurgence for the left-leaning party amid growing public demand for progressive policies.
However, both the Free Democratic Party (FDP), led by Christian Lindner, and the Sahra Wagenknecht Alliance (BSW) failed to clear the 5% threshold required for parliamentary representation, leaving them with 0 seats despite receiving 4.4% and 4.9% of the vote, respectively. Other smaller parties and independents secured just 1 seat with 4.6% of the vote.
With a total of 630 seats in the Bundestag, a majority requires at least 316 seats. The results indicate that a coalition between the CDU/CSU and the SPD would command a clear majority, totaling 329 seats—well above the threshold needed for governance. This two-party alliance appears to be the most straightforward path to forming a stable government, though negotiations will be crucial given the ideological differences between the parties.
The surge of Die Linke highlights a growing appetite for left-wing policies, while the AfD’s gains have reignited debates about extremism in German politics, particularly with allegations of Nazi sympathies among some of its members. The exclusion of the FDP and BSW from Parliament further narrows the field of potential coalition partners, intensifying focus on the major parties.
Analysts predict that the coming weeks will be pivotal as party leaders engage in talks to shape Germany’s next government, addressing key national and European challenges. Stay tuned for further updates as coalition discussions unfold and Germany’s political future takes shape. #GermanElections
