The German election on February 23rd is expected to be a closely contested and decisive vote. With only 40% of Germans saying Friedrich Merz, leader of the Christian Democrats (CDU), is suitable for the job, it’s clear that voters are divided. However, with deepening economic issues and heated debates over immigration, many Germans are feeling disillusioned.
A recent survey found that only a minority of voters believe their chosen candidates can effectively address these concerns. This has led to a surge in support for populist parties and anti-establishment movements.
Here are five key charts that explain the trends shaping the election:
Chart 1: Economic Concerns
The German economy is facing significant challenges, including a shrinking workforce and rising unemployment rates.
Chart 2: Immigration Debate
The debate over immigration has become increasingly heated, with many Germans feeling that their country’s borders are being overwhelmed by asylum seekers.
Chart 3: Voter Sentiment
A recent survey found that only 25% of voters believe that the current government is effective in addressing their concerns.
Chart 4: Populist Support
Support for populist parties and anti-establishment movements has surged, with many Germans feeling disillusioned with traditional politics.
Chart 5: Voting Trends
These charts show how voting trends are shifting across different demographics, including age, region, and party affiliation.
The outcome of the election will depend on how well each candidate can address these concerns and bring together a divided electorate. With only 40% of Germans saying that Friedrich Merz is suitable for the job, it’s clear that this won’t be an easy victory to win.
Source: https://www.economist.com/graphic-detail/2025/02/14/how-will-the-german-election-be-decided