faz.net
New German Government Starts Term with Record Low Approval
A new German government, composed of CDU/CSU and SPD, starts its term with only 23% public approval, significantly lower than previous governments, due to broken promises, low public trust in Chancellor Merz, and anticipation of continued unpopular policies.
- What is the most striking finding of the Allensbach Institute poll regarding public perception of the new German government, and what are the immediate implications?
- A new German government faces exceptionally low public approval before even taking office, with only 23% viewing it favorably, according to an Allensbach Institute poll for the F.A.Z. This is significantly lower than the approval ratings of previous coalitions at their inception. The lack of confidence is reflected in the low percentage of people who believe the government will address pressing issues like inflation and affordable housing.
- How do the current approval ratings compare to those of previous German governments at the start of their terms, and what factors contributed to this exceptionally low public trust?
- This widespread dissatisfaction stems from a combination of factors: the new coalition's broken election promises regarding the debt brake, low public trust in Chancellor Merz (only 13% hold a positive opinion), and a general perception that the government will not substantially deviate from the unpopular policies of its predecessor. This contrasts sharply with the 39% of people who initially expressed hope for the previous coalition.
- Given the extremely low approval ratings and public expectations, what are the primary challenges facing the new German government, and how can it potentially overcome this lack of confidence?
- The low expectations present a double-edged sword for the new government. While the low baseline makes significant disappointment less likely, it also limits opportunities for positive reception of any achieved goals. The government's success hinges on exceeding minimal public expectations; however, with only 21% believing Merz can effectively lead, the challenge is significant. The current climate necessitates drastic changes to achieve any increase in public confidence.
Cognitive Concepts
Framing Bias
The framing of the article is overwhelmingly negative. The headline (while not provided) would likely reflect this negativity. The repeated emphasis on low approval ratings, broken promises, and lack of public confidence shapes the narrative towards a pessimistic outlook. The article chooses to lead with the negative polling data rather than exploring potential policy successes or positive aspects of the new government. This negatively frames the situation from the start.
Language Bias
The language used is largely neutral, although the repetitive focus on negative aspects (e.g., "enttäuscht," "Befürchtungen," "Misstrauen") contributes to the overall negative tone. While these are accurate reflections of the poll results, the absence of balancing positive language creates a skewed perception.
Bias by Omission
The analysis focuses heavily on public opinion polls and their negative findings regarding the new government. While this provides a significant perspective, it omits exploration of the new government's policy proposals and potential positive impacts. The article also doesn't delve into the specific reasons behind the low approval ratings, beyond mentioning broken campaign promises regarding the debt brake. A more in-depth look at the policy details and potential justifications for the government's actions would provide a more balanced view.
False Dichotomy
The article presents a somewhat false dichotomy by repeatedly contrasting public expectations with the reality of the government's low approval ratings. While this contrast is valid, the article doesn't adequately explore the complexities of public opinion, the potential for shifting opinions, or alternative explanations for the low approval.
Sustainable Development Goals
The article highlights low public trust in the new German government, even before it assumes office. This reflects a lack of faith in institutions and the political process, undermining the SDG target of promoting peaceful and inclusive societies for sustainable development, providing access to justice for all and building effective, accountable and inclusive institutions at all levels.