Berlin, October 26, 2021 – Germany’s newly elected Bundestag met for the first time on Tuesday, marking the beginning of a new political era following September’s federal election. The session, held in Berlin’s Reichstag building, saw lawmakers from seven political parties take their seats, reflecting a more fragmented parliament than in previous years.
Key Developments from the Session
1. Oldest Member Presides Over Opening
As tradition dictates, the Bundestag’s oldest member, 72-year-old Wolfgang Schäuble of the Christian Democratic Union (CDU), presided over the inaugural session. Schäuble, a veteran politician and former president of the parliament, oversaw the swearing-in of new lawmakers.
2. Record Diversity in Representation
The new Bundestag is the most diverse in German history, with a record number of women (34.7%) and members with migrant backgrounds (11.3%). The Greens and the Free Democratic Party (FDP) saw significant gains, while the CDU/CSU bloc suffered major losses.
3. Coalition Talks Still Underway
Despite the Bundestag’s first sitting, negotiations to form a new government continue. The Social Democrats (SPD), Greens, and FDP are in talks to establish a so-called "traffic light" coalition (named after the parties’ colors: red, green, and yellow). SPD leader Olaf Scholz, the likely next chancellor, urged swift progress, saying, “Citizens expect us to deliver stability.”
4. Far-Right AfD Loses Influence
The far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD), now the largest opposition party, saw its seat share shrink. However, its presence remains contentious, with other parties refusing to engage with it on policy matters.
With the Bundestag now operational, pressure mounts for coalition parties to finalize a government. Analysts expect a new chancellor to be elected by early December, ending Angela Merkel’s 16-year tenure.
© DW News