Germany
Why is Germany holding early elections in February 2023?
Germany is holding early elections on Sunday, February 23 to elect 630 members of parliament because the previous government collapsed. The three-way coalition government led by Chancellor Olaf Scholz fell apart in November last year. This political crisis deepened when Scholz subsequently lost a vote of confidence in December, which formally triggered the need for early elections. German citizens will now head to the polls earlier than the regularly scheduled election cycle to determine a new parliamentary composition.
Watch clip answer (00:18m)
WION
02:39 - 02:57
How is political turmoil affecting Germany's energy transition?
Germany's ambitious energy transition is stalling due to political turmoil that has frozen key climate funding. A significant casualty is the 2 billion euro hydrogen project, which has been put on hold amidst the crisis. This suspension signals a broader shift away from green priorities in German policy. The situation highlights how political instability can directly impact climate initiatives, potentially derailing long-term environmental goals and infrastructure development in renewable energy sectors.
Watch clip answer (00:15m)
WION
03:11 - 03:26