Germany's Coalition Talks Advance with Stricter Migration Policy Draft

The CDU/CSU and SPD have agreed on tougher migration measures, but key disputes delay finalizing a government as the AfD gains record support.

The CDU/CSU and SPD coalition negotiations have produced a draft agreement on stricter migration policies, marking a major policy shift in response to the AfD's electoral surge.
Proposed measures include expanded detention capacity, suspension of family reunification for migrants, and broader criteria for deportation, though some aspects remain unresolved.
The AfD's polling has reached a historic high of 23.5%, narrowing the gap with the CDU/CSU to less than four points, fueled by backlash over the CDU's debt package.
The Bundestag convened on March 25 with the AfD as the main opposition, a development that underscores Germany's growing political polarization.
Friedrich Merz aims to finalize a coalition by Easter, but disagreements over welfare cuts, defense spending, and migration policy cast doubt on the timeline.