A German state in focus amid AfD gains
Two early‑season heatwaves have broken June temperature records across western Europe, pushing many locations above 40°C, triggering red alerts, disrupting transport and power, and causing dozens of deaths in France and other countries. Scientists have said human‑caused warming has made this event far more likely and night‑time temperatures have remained unusually high.
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.
The AfD is consolidating support in eastern Germany as it pushes to win 40% in Saxony-Anhalt and potentially govern a state for the first time, while Berlin-backed parties warn of security risks and internal strains.