German Bundestag Convenes for 21st Legislative Period, Julia Klöckner Expected as New President

Gregor Gysi opens the first session as Alterspräsident, while debates on migration policy reform and AfD's growing influence dominate proceedings.

The newly elected Bundestag has officially convened, marking the start of the 21st legislative period with 630 members in attendance.
Gregor Gysi, as the longest-serving member, opened the session, leading to criticism from the AfD, which unsuccessfully proposed changing the Alterspräsident selection rules.
Julia Klöckner of the CDU is expected to be elected Bundestagspräsidentin, becoming the fourth woman to hold this high-ranking position in Germany's history.
Outgoing Chancellor Olaf Scholz and his cabinet remain in office in a caretaker role until a new government is formed, as required by the German Constitution.
Migration policy reform is a key focus, with former Bundestagspräsident Norbert Lammert emphasizing the unsustainability of the current approach and urging collective action by democratic parties.