In the news: AfD surges in state polls and fights a court ruling over extremism labeling as Germany’s rise tests mainstream parties. Biog: far-right, nationalist party in Germany; 151 Bundestag seats.
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has said he would not advise his children to study or work in the United States given the current social climate, signaling growing skepticism about the US as a destination for talent. Merz says Germany still offers strong opportunities and urges a measured, national approach to foreign policy in light of U.S. volatility.
Germany has failed to win a rotating United Nations Security Council seat, scoring 104 votes against Portugal's 134 and Austria's 131 in the General Assembly vote on 3–4 June 2026. The result is prompting sharp criticism at home and government statements that Russia and Germany's positions on Ukraine and Israel have cost votes.
Taleb al-Abdulmohsen has been found guilty of six murders and attempted murder in Magdeburg. The court rules the crime as of particular severity, making release unlikely after 15 years. The rampage occurred on December 20, 2024, targeting a Christmas market and leaving multiple dead and injured.
Germany has unveiled a broad reform package aimed at boosting growth and competitiveness. The plan includes €10 billion a year in tax relief for lower-income earners, pension system overhauls, tighter sick-leave rules, and reduced bureaucracy. The measures are financed by raising the top tax rate for high earners and seek to sharpen Germany’s economic position amid global competition. The package faces mixed reception from unions and business groups as it moves toward final approvals.