Overview
- Bavarian Minister-President Markus Söder argues small Länder are no longer viable and claims larger units perform better.
- Commentary frames the move as a CSU-friendly message tied to frustration over Bavaria’s large contributions to fiscal equalization.
- Observers say mergers remain unlikely for decades due to constitutional hurdles and strong regional identities.
- The debate spotlights perceived inefficiencies in federalism, including divergent education policies and fragmented transport planning.
- Analysts expect any near-term action to center on Bavarian administrative streamlining, with a local commission not set to deliver quick results before municipal elections.