German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier officially dissolved parliament on Friday, announcing the early general election date of February 23, 2025. This decision follows the collapse of Olaf Scholz’s government last month.
The internal discord within Scholz’s coalition, primarily over strategies to rejuvenate Europe’s largest economy, precipitated the government’s downfall. Additionally, a recent car-ramming incident at a Christmas market has reignited urgent discussions surrounding security and immigration policies.
Steinmeier emphasized the necessity for “political stability” and called for a campaign marked by “respect and decency.” He insisted on fair and transparent campaigning methods and warned against the risks of foreign interference, particularly in light of heightened tensions on various social media platforms.
“Hatred and violence must have no place in this election campaign, nor denigration or intimidation… all this is poison for democracy,” he stated.
The president also highlighted the significant challenges the next government will encounter, including an “economically unstable situation” and ongoing conflicts in the Middle East and Ukraine, as well as pressing debates regarding immigration and climate change.
Olaf Scholz will continue in his role as caretaker chancellor until a new government is established, a process that may extend over several months.
