Germany Faces Identity Crisis Ahead of Early Elections

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Germany is grappling with a sense of disillusionment as it prepares for early elections on February 23, 2025, following a series of economic and infrastructural challenges. The collapse of the Carolabrücke bridge in Dresden last September, which fortunately resulted in no casualties, has symbolized deeper issues, such as a stagnating economy and declining confidence in national infrastructure, according to local journalist Gunnar Klehm of Sächsische Zeitung. Economists, including Rolf Langhammer from the Institute for the World Economy, emphasize the growing anxieties or "angst" among Germans regarding their economic stability and identity, as critical industries like automotive face fierce competition from China. Polls suggest that Friedrich Merz of the Christian Democrats is favored to succeed Social Democrat Olaf Scholz, with the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) potentially securing a surprising second place. This shift threatens the post-World War II consensus that has defined modern German identity. With the nation facing external pressures from global leaders and internal divisions over national pride, many Germans are seeking clarity on their future direction.

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