A recent internal analysis reveals the Free Democratic Party (FDP) is undertaking a period of self-reflection regarding its performance in recent years, acknowledging a failure to connect with a broader segment of the electorate. The 48-page presentation, now under discussion with the FDP’s federal executive board, identifies a disconnect between the party’s perceived competence in problem-solving and its ability to translate that into tangible voter support.
The assessment, compiled using data from the past decade encompassing polling trends, voter shifts and a survey of 3,000 participants, highlights that while the FDP maintains a reputation as a champion of reform, that very image has ironically contributed to disillusionment, particularly given the limited scope for reform initiatives within the current coalition government.
A core issue identified is the party’s inability to cultivate lasting voter loyalty. While the FDP achieved respectable results in the 2017 (10.7%) and 2021 (11.5%) federal elections, the party seemingly failed to recognize that much of that support wasn’t consistent. Significantly, while over five million people voted for the FDP in each of those elections, only two million did so in both.
The 2017 electorate was described as more diverse and driven by the FDP’s image as a force for reform. However, after the collapse of coalition talks, many of those voters drifted away, damaging the party’s reputation. A subsequent surge in support in 2021 was fueled by widespread voter dissatisfaction with government pandemic measures, but this also created a “significant burden” on the party. The influx of voters prioritizing individual liberties subsequently grew disappointed with the FDP’s actions within the government, with the party failing to formulate a clear strategic response to their expectations.
Outgoing parliamentary group leader Christian Dürr acknowledged that the party had not lived up to the expectations of many citizens, stating, “We must admit that we have disappointed the expectations of many citizens. I regret that; and I choose that wording deliberately, because I was also myself in responsibility”. He observed that the public no longer views the FDP as a genuine problem-solver.
Looking ahead, the analysis, summarized under the heading “Lessons learned” emphasizes the need for more accessible language, moving away from perceived “abstract” or “advertising-like” rhetoric. The focus will shift to building a larger core electorate – a goal that has been unsuccessful in recent years. Crucially, the party believes it needs to more effectively communicate its core values and reputation.
To this end, the FDP leadership intends to collaborate with all members to develop a new foundational program, moving away from philosophical discussions and towards “concrete solutions for real-world everyday problems”. The party aims to prioritize citizen engagement, positioning it as a guiding principle.