Friedrich Merz’s role in CDU leadership, domestic policy agenda and public discourse inside Germany

Germany in 2026 is navigating a complex political landscape shaped significantly by Friedrich Merz’s leadership within the CDU and the country's ongoing internal debates over social attitudes, security policies, and societal cohesion.

Merz’s Speeches and Positioning within the CDU

Friedrich Merz has emerged as a prominent figure advocating for a robust national strategy centered on security, economic resilience, and strategic autonomy. His speeches often emphasize strengthening Germany’s military capabilities, fostering economic independence, and reasserting traditional conservative values. For instance, during the CDU party conference in Stuttgart, Merz delivered a fiery address underscoring the importance of security and sovereignty, and he has been actively campaigning ahead of regional elections, notably in Hesse, where he emphasizes themes of national security and economic strength.

Merz’s rhetoric also reflects an assertive stance on migration and social integration, often highlighting the need for migration control and preservation of German identity. His upcoming book, "By the Book in Berlin," criticizes what he perceives as systemic decay within universities and public institutions, calling for reforms to restore governance integrity and social cohesion. His remarks, including a humorous reference to former U.S. President Trump’s disbelief at Germany’s “60% drop in immigration,” underline his focus on migration policies and national identity.

Merz’s Domestic Policy Agenda and Public Discourse

A key aspect of Merz’s focus is domestic security and social stability. This includes efforts to combat rising anti-Semitism, address civil unrest, and reform institutional biases. Recent incidents, such as a large arson attack on Berlin’s infrastructure and clashes over the Gaza conflict, reveal a society under strain. Jewish community leaders like Wieland Hoban have raised alarms over escalating anti-Semitic rhetoric and violence, exacerbated by divisive narratives around Palestine. The government has responded with measures like social media restrictions for minors, raids on hate networks, and dismantling extremist groups involved in trafficking Nazi memorabilia.

Internal weaknesses are further exposed by studies on institutional racism, showing pervasive biases within police, judiciary, and civil service, fueling debates over systemic reform. Regions like Brandenburg suffer from administrative failures, adding to societal tensions. Additionally, the Bundeswehr faces scandals involving abuse and operational lapses, particularly among recruits from Generation Z, sparking renewed discussions about reintroducing conscription and strengthening military readiness.

Domestic Debates: Social Attitudes, Conscription, and Immigration

The societal fabric is under pressure from civil unrest, anti-Semitism, and institutional weaknesses. The rise of extremist narratives and disinformation campaigns, often exploited by foreign actors like Russia, deepen social polarization. Germany continues to grapple with public debates over immigration, with Merz advocating for stricter controls, emphasizing the importance of social cohesion and national identity.

In response, the government is considering measures such as banning social media for children—a proposal that Merz has expressed sympathy for—aimed at curbing youth exposure to radicalizing content. Meanwhile, public discourse remains divided over wartime policies such as conscription, which is being reconsidered amid military modernization efforts and scandals within the Bundeswehr.

External Influences and Disinformation

External pressures remain a significant challenge. Russian disinformation campaigns continue to exploit Germany’s internal divisions, especially regarding support for Ukraine and Western alliances, further fueling societal polarization. The participation of AfD representatives at international security forums like the Munich Security Conference has raised concerns about normalizing extremist voices within diplomatic spaces, potentially undermining democratic norms.

Germany’s Strategic Pivot

Under Merz’s leadership, Germany is pursuing a comprehensive strategy towards greater autonomy. This includes military modernization — with defense spending reaching €153 billion — and technological investments such as quantum computing and cybersecurity initiatives. Berlin is also diversifying energy sources away from Russian gas and engaging in hypersonic missile development through the Hypersonica program to enhance military independence.

Diplomatically, Merz has emphasized balancing economic ties with China, advocating for geopolitical prudence while maintaining trade relations—which, in 2025, surpassed previous records. The move to demand €122 billion worth of gold from U.S. vaults symbolizes Germany’s push for financial sovereignty.

Despite these efforts, sectoral vulnerabilities persist. The German rubber industry faces decline amid global disruptions, and defense procurement projects like Fighter-X and FCAS experience delays, highlighting the need for European industrial coordination.

Conclusion

Germany in 2026 is at a pivotal crossroads. Merz’s leadership has galvanized efforts to strengthen national security, reform social policies, and pursue strategic independence. However, internal challenges—such as rising extremism, societal unrest, and institutional weaknesses—complicate this trajectory. The country’s success in managing internal stability while asserting external independence will determine whether it can sustain its democratic foundations and continue to play a leading role in Europe and beyond amid a rapidly changing global order.