CDU Faces Growing Pressure Over Gender Parity as Merz Resists Change

Friedrich Merz's opposition to equal female representation in leadership roles has intensified criticism within the CDU/CSU, raising concerns about the party's appeal to female voters.

• Friedrich Merz has rejected calls for gender parity in the cabinet, advocating instead for a 25% female representation.
• Female members of the CDU/CSU, including Mechthild Heil, have criticized the party's failure to recognize women's competencies and provide equitable roles.
• Rita Süssmuth, a prominent CDU figure, has renewed her push for 50% female representation in leadership and government positions.
• The CDU/CSU's male-dominated structure, with only 23% female representation in its parliamentary group, is seen as increasingly out of step with societal expectations.
• The SPD's higher female representation in coalition negotiations further highlights the CDU/CSU's shortcomings and raises concerns about its electoral competitiveness.

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