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Election 2005

Election Issues: What's at Stake

Unemployment tops the agenda

Unemployment, taxes, health insurance and social justice are just a few of the topics politicians wrangled about this campaign season. And for every problem, there are at least two or more proposals for solving it.

DW-WORLD takes you through the hot-button issues, explaining what's really at stake and how the parties line-up across the spectrum.

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A Rebirth for German Nuclear Energy?

The prospect of victory by Germany's conservative opposition in an early general election has shaken up the country's energy sector. The nuclear power industry is hoping to slow the planned phase out atomic energy. 

The World According to Merkel

What kind of Germany will the world get if Angel Merkel becomes chancellor? Most likely more of the same, say analysts.  

Economy Set to Dominate German Election

Now that it looks like elections will take place in September, political parties can get down to the fundamentals of their campaigns, which will be dominated by two themes: unemployment and deficits. (July 24, 2005) 

Germany's Long Road to Multiculturalism

With possible federal polls in September, DW-WORLD spoke to Anetta Kahane, one of Germany's leading anti-racism activists, about the politically-loaded topic of immigration and racism. 

Unemployment

More than five million Germans are out of work: Reducing unemployment is the election's most important topic. 

Taxes

There are two main issues related to taxation in this election: reforming the highly complicated tax system and making it more just. Just who or what will be taxed and how much is at stake depends on the party. 

Pension

As more citizens live longer and have fewer children, the number of retired workers grows while the number or new workers declines. The situation poses serious consequences for the state's pension plans.  

Health Care

The state health care insurance system is in need of a complete make-over. The question is how to pay for the increasing costs in medical services while maintaining high quality affordable care for all citizens. 

Education and Research

Goethe, Einstein, Nietzsche -- Germany was once called the nation of poets and philosophers. Today, the country is faced with some of the lowest education standards in Europe. What can be done to improve the situation?  

Family

All political parties like to claim that they're the most family-friendly. But what exactly are they promising? 

Energy

Oil and gas are scarce resources. Politicians have vastly different ideas when it comes to meeting growing energy demand.  

Domestic Security and Immigration

How far will Germans allow their civil liberties to be circumscribed in the fight against terrorism? What is the best policy for integrating the Islamic minority? Here's what the different parties have to say.  

Foreign Policy

Is US or French alignment better for Germany's interests? What should be the function of the Bundeswehr? Would Germany benefit from a permanent seat in the UN Security Council? Here's what the parties have to say. 

More on this topic

What Next After German Political Stalemate?

The inconclusive poll has left Schröder and Merkel jockeying for power. By law, either one can become the next chancellor. But, it's the president who can eventually weigh in and name a candidate if talks drag on.

Election Resonates Abroad

As news of election gridlock spreads around the world many regions are left wondering what will be the new face of German foriegn policy?

Press Review: Germany's Troubled Election

International newspapers have mixed reactions to the election, but disappointment and confusion prevail.