SPD Launches Voting Process for Coalition Agreement with Union

In Germany, the Social Democratic Party (SPD) has initiated a voting process for its approximately 358,000 members to decide on the coalition agreement with the Union. Starting from Tuesday, members will have until April 29, 2025, at 23:59 to cast their votes through an online platform that opens at 8 AM. The results of the vote are expected to be announced on April 30.

SPD Chairperson Saskia Esken has advocated for the approval of the 144-page agreement, acknowledging that while it contains both positive and negative aspects, it provides a solid foundation for collaboration between the SPD and the Union. She emphasized the importance of provisions such as the relaxation of the debt brake for defense purposes, the special fund for investments, and measures aimed at bolstering the economy.

For the coalition agreement to be accepted, not only is a majority of votes necessary, but at least 20% of members must participate in the digital voting process. Members received a password by mail, which they can use in conjunction with their membership number to submit their votes securely online. Those without internet access will have the option to vote in-person at SPD offices.

The coalition agreement includes significant campaign promises from the SPD, such as a minimum wage of 15 euros and tax reductions for low- and middle-income earners. However, the planned tightening of migration and social policies has sparked controversy, particularly among the party's youth organization, the Jusos, which opposes the agreement and is calling for renegotiations.

In response to these criticisms, Jörg Klingbeil, a leading figure in the SPD, stated during a dialogue conference in Hannover that there would be no renegotiations. He warned that if the coalition between the SPD and the Union does not materialize, Germany could face new elections or the establishment of a minority government. Klingbeil expressed concern about the potential strengthening of factions within the Union that advocate for normalizing relations with the Alternative for Germany (AfD).

As of now, only the Christian Social Union (CSU) has accepted the coalition agreement through a board resolution, while the Christian Democratic Union (CDU) is yet to make a decision. The CDU, led by designated Chancellor Friedrich Merz, is set to vote on the matter at a small party conference on April 28. The election of the Chancellor in the Bundestag and the swearing-in of the new cabinet are scheduled for May 6.