Prof. Dr. Ulrich Schlie does not see Friedrich Merz's difficult start as chancellor as a national crisis, but as a clear sign of political instability. The fact that so many MPs dropped out in the first round of voting is not only unusual, but also highly dangerous. He sharply criticized the voting behaviour, as it was likely to torpedo the implementation of a jointly agreed coalition agreement - and warned against repeats in future votes.
Schlie emphasizes the responsibility of the parliamentary groups to create internal unity and to put their own egos behind strategic unity. Trust is the foundation of every successful coalition - as the example of Barzel/Schmidt in the 1960s shows. The new government must now prove that it can overcome these rifts.
The political scientist also makes it clear that the era of political comfort in the old Federal Republic is over. In view of increasing international uncertainties, today's politics require more courage, clarity and action in the face of uncertainty. In future, the ability to govern will largely depend on whether it is possible to diplomatically bridge profound differences in content - for example in migration policy.