Coalition Negotiations Face Stalemate Over Taxes, Migration, and Social Policies

CDU/CSU and SPD struggle to finalize a coalition agreement as divisions deepen and deadlines loom for resolving disputes.

The CDU/CSU and SPD remain divided over key issues, including taxation, migration policies, and social reforms, hindering progress in coalition talks.
The 500-billion-euro special fund for infrastructure, defense, and climate protection has been approved, but disagreements persist over its allocation.
Internal dissent within the CDU grows, with members criticizing the debt-financed package and some resigning from local branches.
The SPD pushes for a 15-euro minimum wage by 2026 and increased investments in education, while the CDU/CSU emphasizes corporate tax cuts and fiscal conservatism.
The coalition's urgency stems from the need to counter the AfD's rising influence, but delays in forming a government are expected beyond the Easter target.