ARD and ZDF Face Criticism Over Controversial TV Debate Format for Bundestagswahl

The broadcasters defend their two-duel approach, while Robert Habeck declines participation and other politicians offer to step in.

ARD and ZDF plan two televised debates for the 2024 Bundestagswahl: one between Olaf Scholz (SPD) and Friedrich Merz (CDU), and another between Robert Habeck (Greens) and Alice Weidel (AfD).
Robert Habeck has declined to participate in the debate with Alice Weidel, citing prior communication that his campaign would not accept such an invitation.
The broadcasters defend their decision, citing the principle of 'graduated equality of opportunity,' which allocates airtime based on factors like previous election results and current polling.
FDP leader Christian Lindner and BSW leader Sahra Wagenknecht have publicly offered to replace Habeck in the debate with Weidel.
A final multi-party debate featuring all leading candidates is scheduled for February 20, just days before the February 23 election.