Economist Podcasts Colour visions: a German-election lookahead
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Feb 19, 2025 The political landscape in Germany is buzzing with potential coalition scenarios, heavily influenced by smaller parties. Scandals in Japan spark a much-needed #MeToo movement, highlighting women's rights in media. Meanwhile, London's beloved pie shops grapple with dwindling popularity and changing culinary trends, evoking nostalgia amid economic pressures. As traditions fade, the stories of loyal patrons offer a glimpse into a culinary legacy in jeopardy.
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German Election System
- Germany's federal election uses a proportional representation system, impacting coalition formation.
- Smaller parties' performance significantly influences the distribution of seats among larger parties.
Small Parties, Big Impact
- Three smaller parties (Free Democrats, Die Linke, Bundnis-Sara alliance) are near the 5% threshold for parliamentary representation.
- How many of these parties surpass this threshold will significantly affect the coalition possibilities.
AFD's Influence
- The AFD's presence complicates coalition building, as other parties refuse to work with them.
- This 'firewall' around the AFD restricts the available political space for majority coalitions.