The Union faction, the largest group in Germany’s Bundestag, is signaling a desire to fundamentally renegotiate the terms of the ruling coalition agreement with the Social Democrats (SPD) in the second half of the legislative period. Steffen Bilger, the parliamentary group’s managing director, has publicly proposed a “Koalitionsvertrag 2.0” suggesting a comprehensive update to the existing framework.
Bilger’s proposition, echoed by Chancellery Minister Thorsten Frei, comes as the government navigates increasing political pressures and diverging policy priorities. While the SPD has yet to formally respond, Bilger asserted the CDU’s readiness to engage in such discussions, positioning the second half of 2026, coinciding with potential recommendations from social state commissions, as a strategic moment for renewal.
Beyond a general refresh of the coalition agreement, Bilger explicitly pointed to the corporate tax rate as a critical area for reassessment. He argued that delaying the planned reduction until 2028, as currently stipulated in the existing accord, represents a missed opportunity to stimulate economic growth and suggested a discussion on accelerating the implementation, alongside considerations about financing. This subtly underscores a growing frustration within the Union regarding the SPD’s fiscal policies.
The proposal highlights a potential power struggle within the government. It also signals an ambitious agenda for 2026, with Bilger emphasizing the urgency of healthcare reform. He directly addressed the contentious issue of patient co-payments, suggesting that a practice fee – a charge for visiting a doctor – could be a necessary instrument to curb costs and enhance the efficiency of the German healthcare system. Such a suggestion, previously floated by various conservative voices, underscores the Union’s push for market-oriented reforms within the traditionally social welfare-focused sector.
Bilger acknowledged a period of adjustment for the coalition following the last federal election, characterized by internal friction and slower decision-making processes. He expressed confidence that the government will govern more effectively in 2026, citing trust-building as a key factor. However, he levied a veiled criticism at the SPD’s pace, particularly concerning the delayed implementation of reforms to the Bürgergeld (social welfare benefits), slated for debate only in January. This critique suggests the Union is pushing for faster, more decisive action and implicitly questioning the SPD’s ability to adequately respond to pressing economic and social challenges. The call for increased government tempo extends beyond the SPD, indicating a broader concern about bureaucratic inertia and a desire to accelerate policy implementation across the entire coalition.