Post Reports The end of the Merkel era
Sep 16, 2021
Ishaan Tharoor, a foreign affairs columnist for The Washington Post, dives into Angela Merkel's impactful legacy as she steps down after 16 years. They explore her rise from East Germany to Chancellor, highlighting her steady leadership during multiple crises. The discussion also delves into the political vacuum her departure creates and the emerging forces in German politics, including challenges she faced with the refugee crisis and climate policies. Tharoor offers insights on what her exit means for Germany and the broader world.
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Merkel's Rise to Power
- Angela Merkel, a pastor's daughter, was initially a scientist in East Germany.
- After the fall of the Berlin Wall, she entered politics, mentored by Helmut Kohl, and surprisingly rose to lead the CDU.
Merkel's Crisis Management
- Merkel's leadership was shaped by crises like the 2009 debt crisis and the migrant crisis.
- While praised for her steady hand, her actions also sparked controversy and division.
Merkel's Climate Legacy
- Despite being called the "climate chancellor," Merkel's climate legacy is mixed.
- While Germany met its 2020 emissions target, its reliance on coal and rejection of nuclear power remain contentious.