BERLIN (dpa-AFX) – Despite many international tensions, Chancellor Friedrich Merz calls for confidence and is relying on decisions for important reforms in the new year. So 2026 could be “a moment of departure,” said the CDU chairman in his first New Year’s speech as head of government, according to the text of the speech that was distributed in advance. “For this we have to trust ourselves, our courage and our drive,” said Merz and added: “Let’s not listen to the fearmongers and the doom-mongers.”
With a view to the war in Ukraine, threats from Russia and the more difficult relationship with the USA, the Chancellor emphasized that he was aware that many people were worried about peace in the face of the uncertain world. “I tell you: We ensure our security. We live in a safe country.” In order for it to stay that way, the deterrence capability must be improved, he said in the speech, which is to be broadcast on New Year’s Eve.
“No war far away”
Merz named the task of the black-red government as “renewing the foundations of our freedom, our security and our prosperity for the next few years and perhaps decades.” This will only be possible if Europe secures peace in freedom. However, Russia is continuing the war against Ukraine with undiminished severity, and many there are again “without electricity, in a hail of rockets, in fear for friends and families” at the New Year.
Merz emphasized: “It is not a distant war that does not affect us. Because we are seeing more and more clearly: Russia’s attack was and is part of a plan that is directed against all of Europe. Germany is also being invaded by sabotage, espionage and cyber attacks every day.” At the same time, the partnership with the USA, which has long been the most reliable security guarantor, is changing. “For us Europeans this means: We have to defend and assert our interests even more strongly using our own strength.”
“New balance” in social systems
With regard to domestic policy, Merz primarily addressed impulses for the economy and social reforms. A “home-made reform backlog” is crippling the potential of German companies, including on export markets. As society gets older and baby boomers retire, it will be important in 2026 to “create a new balance in our social security systems that fairly balances the concerns of all generations.”
The Chancellor said: “We will have to decide on fundamental reforms next year so that our social systems remain financially viable in the long term.” There are acute problems with statutory health insurance and nursing care insurance due to rising billion-dollar costs. After internal resistance from young Union MPs against a first pension package with longer protection of the pension level, another major reform of pension provision is to follow.
“Are not the playthings of great powers”
Merz called for support for important projects. Quite a few said that it was still too little and that they didn’t feel it yet, he admitted. But he is certain: “Germany will reap the benefits of the reforms, even if it takes a certain amount of time.” In general, the following applies: “We have it in our own hands to overcome each of these challenges on our own. We are not victims of external circumstances. We are not a plaything of major powers.”
The Chancellor formulated the outlook for 2026: “It can be a year in which Germany and Europe build on decades of peace, freedom and prosperity with new strength.” The democratic processes are sometimes tough and contentious. “But this is the only way we can achieve results that are supported by a broad majority of our country.”/sam/DP/jha