Positive mood in Berlin: Pauls and Pawlik strengthen coalition!

Positive mood in Berlin: Pauls and Pawlik strengthen coalition!

In Berlin there is optimism in the grand coalition between the CDU and SPD, as Dr. Thomas Pauls, member of the Bundestag for the CDU, emphasized at a meeting in Bad Nauheim. Despite some challenges, Pauls sees the mood as more positive than is often portrayed in the media. “The cooperation is fair and collegial,” adds Natalie Pawlik from the SPD, who also commented on the events and is campaigning for improved integration of migrants. Pauls emphasizes that many campaign promises have already been successfully implemented, including measures on migration and improving investment conditions.

Important issues such as migration also shaped the federal election campaign. Friedrich Merz, the CDU chairman, announced that he wanted to increase controls at the borders in order to turn away asylum seekers. This causes tensions between the Union and the SPD, as tagesschau.de reports. The new coalition agreement reaffirms the fundamental right to asylum and aims to enable integration while at the same time focusing on the order of migration.

Progress and challenges

Dr. Pauls names some concrete progress that has been achieved in the coalition: an immediate program for investments, the reduction of the gas levy and the increase in the commuter allowance. The agreement on an active pension and financial relief, for example through the Deutschlandticket, also show positive developments. Pawlik emphasizes that targeted integration measures are necessary for those Afghans who have been accepted.

However, the mood is not without its challenges. Pauls sees the failed election of Frauke Brosius-Gersdorf as constitutional judge as problematic, especially since the resistance against her within the parliamentary group was underestimated. The plagiarism allegations also led to an unfortunate transition to the summer break, which put a strain on trust in the coalition partners.

Future outlook and need for reform

The need for reform in areas such as citizens' benefits, care and healthcare is evident. Pauls sees a need for action here to address the existing problems. Future legislative initiatives, such as the intended acceleration of asylum procedures, raise legal and organizational concerns, especially the expectations of the EU's functioning external border protection.

To further stimulate cooperation, a joint barbecue with around 300 MPs was planned for September to promote exchange. This measure could help create the necessary collegial atmosphere that is often missing in the political landscape.

Looking ahead, it becomes clear that, despite all the difficulties, the cooperation between the CDU and SPD is not only being put to the test, but also has potential for gradual improvements. While the first sessions in the Bundestag after the summer break are scheduled to take place again next Monday, it remains to be seen how the political developments at the borders and in social policy will actually take shape. The coalition agreement, which is entitled “Responsibility for Germany”, could play a decisive role here, as taz.de analyzes.