The CDU/CSU policies

The CDU/CSU (often referred to as the "Union") is a political alliance in Germany consisting of two sister parties:

• CDU (Christian Democratic Union of Germany) – A center-right party that operates in all of Germany except Bavaria.

• CSU (Christian Social Union in Bavaria) – The CDU’s Bavarian counterpart, which only operates in Bavaria and tends to be more conservative.

Key Facts About CDU/CSU:

• Both parties share similar policies and work together in the Bundestag (German federal parliament) as one parliamentary group.

• The CSU is more socially conservative and Bavaria-focused, while the CDU has a broader national appeal.

• Historically, they have been the dominant center-right force in German politics, often forming governments with the SPD (Social Democratic Party) or FDP (Free Democratic Party) as coalition partners.

• Notable leaders include Konrad Adenauer, Helmut Kohl, Angela Merkel (CDU) and Franz Josef Strauß, Edmund Stoiber, Markus Söder (CSU).

Current CDU/CSU policies:

As of February 24, 2025, the CDU/CSU alliance, led by Friedrich Merz, has outlined several key policy positions reflecting their center-right, Christian democratic stance. These policies have evolved with recent political shifts, especially following their projected victory in the German national election on February 23, 2025, where they secured around 28-29% of the vote. Here’s a breakdown of their current priorities based on their campaign and recent statements:

• Economic Policy:

The CDU/CSU aims to bolster Germany’s economy, which has faced stagnation. They propose cutting red tape and reducing energy costs to encourage investment. Specific measures include lowering electricity taxes and grid fees, expanding renewable energy and power storage, and researching nuclear power. They also plan to reduce corporate tax to a maximum of 25% (down from 29.9%) and eliminate the supply chain due diligence law to ease burdens on businesses. Support for digitalization, sovereign AI, and a "Startup Protection Zone" to shield new companies from bureaucracy are also on the table, alongside establishing a Digital Ministry.

• Immigration and Security:

Migration is a flagship issue, with the CDU/CSU pushing for stricter controls after incidents linked to migrants heightened public concern. They advocate for robust border enforcement, faster asylum processing, and deportations for those without legal residency. They propose reforming European asylum laws to process applications in safe third countries outside the EU, limiting social benefits for deportees, and expanding the list of "safe countries of origin" to streamline rejections. Dual citizenship would be restricted, and naturalization fast-tracked by the previous government would be reversed. At the same time, they aim to attract skilled workers by simplifying visa processes and recognizing foreign qualifications through a "Work-and-Stay Agency."

• Social and Housing Policies:

On social issues, the CDU/CSU leans conservative while addressing practical needs. They plan to boost housing by easing building regulations, expanding construction zones, and promoting social housing investments. Educationally, they support mandatory preschool language tests for German proficiency, increased child benefits, and better student financial aid. They also intend to reverse recent gender transition deregulation and expand childcare access with tax deductions for related expenses.

• Climate and Energy:

Their climate approach emphasizes innovation over regulation. They favor a market-driven strategy, avoiding overburdening the economy or consumers with steep price hikes. This includes supporting renewable energy expansion and technology-open solutions, contrasting with heavier regulatory frameworks favored by rivals like the Greens or SPD.

• Security and Defense:

The CDU/CSU stresses strengthening police and law enforcement to combat crime, extremism, and terrorism. They propose tougher criminal laws and increased Bundeswehr spending to meet NATO requirements, including a potential compulsory service year (military or civic). Nuclear sharing with European partners like France and the UK is also floated as part of a joint defense shield.

These policies reflect a shift from the Merkel era, particularly on migration, where the alliance has toughened its stance to counter the rising far-right AfD (which scored around 19-20% in the election). With their recent win, coalition talks loom—potentially with the Greens (12%) or SPD (16%)—which might soften some edges, especially since the CSU in Bavaria resists Green partnerships. Still, Merz has signaled a focus on quick negotiations to address Germany’s economic and security challenges amid a fragmented parliament.