In the final debate before the federal elections, political leaders addressed critical issues such as defense, health, and climate, with a strong focus on security policy and the situation in Ukraine. While most parties united on support for Ukraine, divisions emerged over defense funding and military conscription. Health care policies sparked debate, particularly on private insurance. Additionally, a consensus was reached among several parties on achieving greenhouse gas neutrality by 2045, despite differing views on the timeline and feasibility.
Federal Election 2025: Key Issues Discussed
In the much-anticipated ‘final round’ hosted by ARD and ZDF, prominent political figures once again tackled pressing issues ahead of the federal elections. As expected, topics surrounding Ukraine and security policies took center stage.
With only three days remaining until the election, leading representatives from eight political parties gathered for a comprehensive discussion on defense, health, and climate issues. This final round aimed to highlight significant topics that had been somewhat sidelined throughout the campaign. Notably absent were the chancellor candidates from SPD and Union, Olaf Scholz and Friedrich Merz, who were replaced by their respective general secretaries.
The debate ignited intense discussions, particularly focusing on the realignment of European security policy, an issue that has become increasingly urgent in light of recent events and remarks from US President Donald Trump. “If American support wanes, we must strengthen our own peace efforts,” emphasized Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock from the Greens.
SPD General Secretary Matthias Miersch pointed out that reforming the debt brake will be crucial for securing defense funding. “We cannot allow national interests to overshadow our defense obligations,” he stated.
Passionate Discussions in the Final Round
Controversy Over the Debt Brake
This stance was met with resistance from the Union parties. CSU parliamentary group leader Alexander Dobrindt insisted on maintaining the debt brake, arguing that financing should be feasible within the budget. CDU General Secretary Carsten Linnemann criticized the federal government for being effectively isolated, asserting that Germany should assume a leadership role in Europe and prioritize its defense capabilities.
FDP leader Christian Lindner remarked that Germany’s geopolitical strength has historically stemmed from its economic power. “We must regain that strength,” he stated, while also highlighting that the US’s nuclear protection for Europe is irreplaceable.
Curious about the political parties’ positions? Here’s a summary of their platforms for the federal election.
Common Ground on Ukraine Among Union, Greens, and SPD
The Union, Greens, and SPD found common agreement regarding the situation in Ukraine, which has faced Russian aggression. “We cannot allow a dictated peace that disregards the voices of Ukrainians and Europeans,” Linnemann asserted, echoing sentiments from Miersch and Baerbock. “If Ukraine is unable to defend itself, other nations will be at risk,” warned Baerbock.
In contrast, the AfD, Left Party, and BSW took a different stance, voicing their opposition to further military assistance for Ukraine. AfD’s top candidate Alice Weidel stated that Germany should cease its involvement, whether through arms supplies or financial aid.
BSW leader Sahra Wagenknecht criticized the escalating defense expenditures, labeling it a “crazy arms race.” Left leader Jan van Aken pointed out that NATO cannot be deemed a community of values, suggesting that Europe could have already positioned itself as a peace power absent reliance on weapons and NATO.
Trump’s derogatory comments about Ukraine have also sparked significant outrage in Germany, prompting calls for increased national confidence.
Conscription Under Discussion
Weidel proposed implementing a two-year conscription in Germany, stating, “We are no longer capable of national defense.” Furthermore, she argued that conscription would foster a sense of identification with the military among the populace.
Conversely, Lindner cautioned against what he termed a “massive infringement of freedom.” Linnemann suggested that young people should be required to serve for a year after completing their education, highlighting alternatives such as the Technical Relief Organization (THW) and fire departments. Baerbock expressed her support for a voluntary service year to enhance societal cohesion.
There are calls for additional billions to be allocated to defense, with an emphasis on swift spending.
Health and Care Policies on the Agenda
In addition to discussions on security, moderators Markus Preiß (ARD Capital Studio) and Diana Zimmermann (ZDF Capital Studio) explored pressing issues in health and care policy. A key question arose: Should private health insurance be eliminated? SPD, Greens, Left, and BSW responded affirmatively, while FDP, Union, and AfD opposed the idea.
“A single-payer system leads us in the wrong direction,” argued Lindner, cautioning that abolishing options in health insurance would erode patient choice. In response, Wagenknecht countered that many individuals lack the freedom to choose their health fund.
On care issues, SPD’s Miersch reiterated his party’s proposal to limit personal contributions for care to 1,000 euros, while Left leader van Aken called for the abolition of the contribution assessment ceiling.
Stay informed on the latest developments regarding the federal election and the ongoing campaign through our live blog.
Greenhouse Gas Neutrality by 2045: A Shared Goal?
In a show of unity, the SPD, Greens, Left, and Union parties committed to achieving greenhouse gas neutrality for Germany by 2045. Miersch welcomed this consensus, noting that the previous clarity around this goal had been lacking. Meanwhile, AfD and BSW sought to abandon this commitment, and FDP proposed delaying the target by at least five years, citing high costs as their justification. “You jeopardize our industrial base,” the AfD candidate criticized the other parties.
In contrast, Baerbock highlighted the potential for new competitive opportunities in the German industry through innovations like climate-neutral steel and vehicles. She pointed out that the achievements in renewable energy expansion demonstrate that a shift in course is achievable.
Curious about what the election programs entail? Stay tuned for analyses, reports, and insights about the early federal election scheduled for February 2025.