Special Event: The German Marshall Fund Young Transatlantic Network (organised by Balkan Trust for Democracy, a project of the German Marshall Fund of the United States)
Post-Election Germany – Same Chancellor, Different Challenges?
On September 24, Angela Merkel was given a mandate to embark on her fourth term as Germany’s chancellor. The process of forming a coalition is unlikely to go smoothly, and it is expected to last for months. Chancellor Merkel is an accomplished political leader, but the new coalition will test her, with opposition parties likely not only to influence Germany’s internal political discourse, but the functioning of its political institutions as well.
Germany is one of the most influential countries in the European Union, particularly on economic and political matters, and the most immediate implications of political change in Berlin could be seen in the European context. Will this push the EU towards regeneration? How will the results of the elections influence relations with France, and how will Brexit continue to unfold under these circumstances? Among Merkel’s many responsibilities, managing a complex relationship with the United States will also stand out, most notably on the questions of fight against terrorism and security cooperation in Europe. Finally, what can the Balkans hope for after these elections?
Within this context, we will use the opportunity to hear from our distinguished guest about the reactions on the ground and his thoughts on further developments after the elections.