Merz's Vision for Germany: Asylum, Taxes, Ukraine, and More

Friedrich Merz's Stance on Asylum Seekers, Taxes, and Ukraine: A Caren Miosga Interview

In a recent interview with ARD's Caren Miosga, Friedrich Merz, the likely next German Chancellor, outlined his key policy positions on several pressing issues. His plans for managing asylum applications, handling potential tax increases, and his approach to the war in Ukraine dominated the conversation.

Curbing Asylum Applications

Merz stated his ambition to drastically reduce the number of new asylum seekers in Germany, aiming for under 100,000 annually. He emphasized that the current influx is overwhelming cities, municipalities, schools, hospitals, and infrastructure. To achieve this goal, his government will intensify deportations and suspend family reunification, measures already outlined in the coalition agreement. He also confirmed his commitment to rejecting asylum applications at the borders, stressing that this is achievable through collaboration with neighboring countries like Austria.

Tax Increases and Economic Reforms

While Merz previously ruled out tax increases during coalition negotiations, he adopted a more nuanced stance in the interview. When directly asked about potential future tax hikes, he famously stated, "You should never say 'never'," acknowledging the unpredictable nature of future economic developments and the ongoing challenges of the "new normal." He announced plans for swift economic reforms, but cautioned against expecting a rapid recovery, predicting that substantial positive effects may not be seen until after 2025.

Pension Reform and Other Policy Priorities

Merz also discussed plans for significant reforms in several key sectors. He confirmed changes to the pension system after 2031, requiring increased federal subsidies. Further reforms are planned for the healthcare and long-term care sectors, including consideration of compulsory care insurance, although this will require coalition discussions. He aims to reform the Riester pension, establish a capital-covered pension pillar, and introduce an “early start” pension from next year. This demonstrates his focus on long-term social and economic stability.

Ukraine and the US: A Strong Stance

Merz strongly condemned the Russian rocket attack on Sumy, labeling it a "serious war crime." He reiterated his support for supplying Ukraine with Taurus cruise missiles, contingent on European coordination. He highlighted the need for Ukraine to shift from purely defensive to more offensive actions, using the missiles to potentially disrupt crucial Russian supply lines to Crimea. He also plans a visit to Washington before summer to discuss key issues with President Trump, including Ukraine, China, Taiwan, and customs policies.

Merz's Key Policy Positions: A Summary

Merz's interview with Caren Miosga provides a comprehensive overview of his key policy priorities and his vision for Germany's future. His strong stances on asylum, Ukraine, and economic reforms signal a potentially significant shift in German policy.