The CDU and CSU have shaped the political landscape in Germany for decades. As sister parties, they act together at federal level, but also have different political approaches in some areas. Particularly in the areas of social policy, climate and migration, different positions sometimes emerge, leading to internal discussions. Here you can read all the news from the Table.Briefings editorial team on current challenges, internal debates and strategic developments in the CDU and CSU, which have a significant influence on the political orientation and course of the two parties. Party chairmanship and personnel changes in the CDU/CSU The CDU/CSU has undergone some important personnel changes in recent years. Following the resignation of Annegret Kramp-Karrenbauer as party chairwoman and the subsequent election of Armin Laschet, the party faced new challenges. Laschet led the party through the 2021 general election, but resigned after the poor election result. Friedrich Merz is currently the leader of the CDU, a politician known for his conservative positions. The CSU, under the long-standing leadership of Markus Söder, has established itself as a strong regional force in Bavaria. Söder has repeatedly shown national ambitions, particularly in connection with his candidacy for chancellor, but has remained anchored at state level. Political positions and strategies of the CDU and CSU Economic policy The CDU/CSU have traditionally focused on a market-oriented economic policy. They emphasize the importance of tax cuts, reducing bureaucracy and promoting small and medium-sized enterprises. The current economic policy agenda also includes measures for digitalization and the promotion of innovation in industry. Climate policy In the current energy policy debate, the parties are focusing on a balanced energy mix of renewable energies and conventional power plants as well as initiatives to promote hydrogen technologies and expand electromobility as part of their strategy to secure the energy supply and achieve climate targets. Domestic and security policy Security and order are key issues for the CDU/CSU. Both parties are calling for a stronger police presence, tougher penalties for criminals and comprehensive measures to combat terrorism. In asylum and migration policy, they advocate a restrictive course aimed at limiting immigration and improving the integration of migrants. Initiatives are needed to modernize the security authorities and to better equip the police. In addition, combating cybercrime is seen as one of the major challenges of the future. Social policy Another important field of action for the CDU and CSU is social policy. The parties emphasize the need to make the pension system sustainable and to strengthen social security. Education policy Education policy remains a key issue. The CDU and CSU are committed to improving the quality of education and promoting STEM subjects (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) more strongly. Digitalization and innovation Digitalization represents one of the greatest challenges and opportunities at the same time. The CDU and CSU see digitalization as a key driver of economic growth and social progress European policy In European policy, the CDU and CSU are committed to a strong and effective European Union. They emphasize the importance of European integration and a common European foreign and security policy. Important politicians of the CDU and CSU The following people are among the most important politicians of the CDU/CSU: Political differences between the CDU and CSU Although the CDU and CSU work closely together as sister parties, there are always political differences. These differences repeatedly lead to tensions and internal party disputes. The future of the CDU/CSU will largely depend on how they can overcome the current challenges and further sharpen their profile. Regaining the trust of voters, adapting to new social developments and strengthening internal party unity are key tasks for the coming years.
Israel: Why think tankers believe Merz's change of course towards Netanyahu is right
Thorsten Benner, Director of the Global Public Policy Institute, accuses critics of Friedrich Merz of waging an "identity politics battle". A balanced foreign policy towards Israel today must be more "nuanced" and "differentiated" than in the days of Angela Merkel.
By Markus Bickel