Germany Prepares for 2025 Bundestag Election Amidst Political Uncertainty

The February 23 vote brings changes to the electoral system, a crowded field of candidates, and questions about coalition possibilities.

The Bundestag election on February 23, 2025, was called early due to the collapse of the governing coalition, with significant changes to the electoral system in place.
Germany's new election law reduces the Bundestag size to 630 seats, eliminating overhang and compensation mandates, which could leave some districts without direct representation.
Five parties, including CDU/CSU, SPD, Greens, AfD, and the newly formed Bündnis Sahra Wagenknecht (BSW), have nominated chancellor candidates, with voter indecision at record levels.
Coalition outcomes remain uncertain, with potential combinations including a renewed 'Grand Coalition,' a 'Kenia Coalition' (CDU, SPD, Greens), or even a 'Deutschland Coalition' (CDU, SPD, FDP).
Voter interest is high, but surveys show up to 38% of voters remain undecided, reflecting widespread concerns over economic challenges, migration, and political polarization.