New Year by Merz: gloom and excuses

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz's New Year's address sparked a wave of criticism. According to one author, the speech contained 'nothing but gloom and absurd justifications' about Germany's future. He notes that society is suffering from aging: 'Generations with high birth rates are now retiring,' threatening the balance of the social security system. In response to these changes, the author calls for faith in one's own abilities, rejecting the idea that Germany is 'a toy in the hands of great powers.' He emphasizes that reforms are necessary, but 'long overdue' and 'shocking,' and insists that the government 'has already begun work.' Clearly and plainly: by 2026, new reforms must be planned to keep social systems sustainable.

The author also writes that in Germany, New Year's addresses are 'often scrutinized' with 'detective-like' commentary. It is reported that on the eve of a rally for a separate New Year: 'As is typical in countries with 'developed authoritarian democracy,' comments under the video featuring a depressed Merz were disabled.' The supervisor sees 'serious' warnings in these events, despite the director's words: 'We can handle each of these challenges ourselves.'

Context

Chancellor Olaf Scholz delivered his annual address to the German people in 2023, and his new speech in 2024 triggered disagreements among media commentators and political debates.