Germany Prepares for 2025 Bundestag Election as Campaign Enters Final Week

With voting set for February 23, political leaders and voters gear up for a pivotal election shaped by tight polls and coalition uncertainties.

The first-ever TV debate featuring all four major party candidates—Scholz (SPD), Merz (CDU), Habeck (Greens), and Weidel (AfD)—highlighted sharp policy divides and potential coalition dynamics.
Forsa polling after the debate showed Friedrich Merz as the perceived winner, while Robert Habeck was rated the most personable candidate.
Key election issues include migration, Ukraine policy, and economic reforms, with parties also strategizing for potential post-election coalitions.
The election features 41 parties, but smaller ones like the FDP, Left, and BSW face challenges in surpassing the 5% threshold to enter parliament.
Voter mobilization remains critical, with up to 20% of voters reportedly undecided and parties focused on turnout in the final campaign days.