Germany: social democracy in crisis?
The bitter defeat of the SPD in two state elections will also have repercussions for the ruling coalition in Berlin. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz (CDU) declared that the "working rhythm" would be resumed and announced reforms. SPD leader Bärbel Bas wants to discuss whether her party leadership is on the right course. Commentators debate how social democracy might reinvent itself.
Party faces Herculean task
The SPD must combine economic competence with a push for reform if it is to become electable again, argues Der Standard:
“It is receiving ever fewer votes because so many people no longer feel represented by it. In the past, even those who didn’t follow politics closely knew that the SPD ensures that the 'ordinary people' don't get trampled on. ... But the resources available for distribution have long since faded into insignificance. ... So the SPD now faces a Herculean task: it must demonstrate credibly that it not only stands by those in need, but that it also has an eye on the overall economic situation. And to improve this situation, reforms are needed – in pensions, health insurance, the care sector and the labour market.”
Follow the Danish comrades
Die Welt recommends that the SPD look to its northern neighbour:
“In Denmark, Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen's party has adjusted its course – adopting a more realistic approach in migration policy, a more pragmatic stance on economic policy, and closer alignment with the working middle class. The result: the collapse of the right-wing populists. The same applies in Germany: without a change of course there will be no SPD comeback. But this change of course will take time, and the coalition only has a small 'window' of opportunity – this summer. That is when the major reforms must take place: lower taxes, lower levies, less bureaucracy, competitive energy prices. In short: a country where work is worthwhile again.”
In the reformism trap
The SPD's reformist model has had its day, Mediapart concludes:
“In France, the SPD was long regarded as a model of successful reformism, in contrast to the French socialist left, which was seen as far too 'dogmatic'. What we didn't see was that the SPD's reformist logic became a trap when the system could no longer be reformed. ... When, in order to save German capitalism, first the unemployed and those in precarious jobs, then pensioners, and finally workers in general were abandoned, the SPD consistently relied on the core tenet of reformism: that keeping capital healthy guarantees improved living conditions for the lower classes. ... But because this doctrine has become fragile and the SPD has failed to replace it, it no longer holds together nor is it fit for political purpose.”
More friction ahead for coalition in Berlin
Český rozhlas sees trouble ahead for German politics:
“Not even Friedrich Merz can wholeheartedly celebrate the CDU victory in Rheinland-Palatinate. Because the SPD defeat could make governing a lot more difficult for him. After its poor performance in the state elections, the SPD will probably want to focus on its own policies and what sets it apart from its coalition partners. As a result, that which for Merz and his chancellery has utmost priority – introducing reforms to stimulate the economy – is under threat. ... If the Merz government becomes embroiled in coalition infighting and the voters see that it won't be able to fulfill its election promises, frustration with the establishment parties will only grow.”
CDU has no alternative
Kurier points out that Chancellor Friedrich Merz's party essentially has no other coalition options:
“Looking at the big picture, the SPD's recent defeats must also give the CDU pause for thought. They are governing together in Berlin, promising economic recovery and all manner of reforms for a sustainable social system. Of course, the coalition was a marriage of convenience from the outset. But the CDU has no alternative, given its excessive demonisation of the Greens (and their low approval ratings) and the much-vaunted firewall against the (far) right. ... The CDU would do well not to exploit the SPD's weakness. The only party to benefit from the current situation is the AfD.”