Angela Merkel, who served as Germany's chancellor for 16 years, is spilling her thoughts and reflections on her time at the helm with her newly released memoir titled Freedom. This comprehensive 736-page autobiography is not just a retelling of her life but also seeks to address the controversies and criticisms surrounding her policies, particularly about her dealings with Russia and her open-door migrant policy.
Merkel’s tenure was marked by significant events, including the financial crisis, the migrant crisis of 2015, and most recently, the geopolitical crisis following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. The memoir debuted on November 26, 2024, and is being published in 30 languages, marking its global relevance.
During recent interviews, Merkel expressed her concerns over her past relations with Russian President Vladimir Putin, particularly emphasizing the gas deals made during her time. Many have criticized these arrangements as paving the way for Germany's reliance on Russian gas, leading to accusations of political naivety. Yet, Merkel defends her choices saying, "The gas deals were intended to support our businesses and to maintain peace with Russia."
She contends the notion of blocking Ukraine’s entry to NATO back in 2008 was, from her perspective, preventive diplomacy. "If Ukraine had joined NATO, it would have made Putin more aggressive. The conflict would have erupted much earlier," she stated. This point has stirred debate among critics like Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, who described the decision as a miscalculation.
Merkel reflects on her relationship with Putin with notable insight. Despite her cautious stance toward him, she acknowledges moments of both cooperation and tension. She recalls how he once gifted her a Labrador puppy, cleverly aware of her fear of dogs. "He used this to play psychological games, but I refused to show fear. Business had to go on as usual regardless of personal fears," she recounted.
Regarding her open-door policy during the 2015 migrant crisis, Merkel's actions received mixed reactions. She famously stated, “Wir schaffen das” or “We can do this,” firmly advocating for Europe to open its doors to those fleeing war. Critics pointed to this decision as a catalyst for the rise of far-right parties like the Alternative for Germany (AfD), who capitalized on anti-immigrant sentiment. Merkel, defending her stance, remarked, "It is necessary to provide refuge and humanitarian aid, considering Germany's prosperity and stability create conditions for many to seek shelter here. At the same time, we must protect our borders."
She urged European nations to tackle the root causes of migration by investing more resources to improve living standards within African nations. Despite acknowledging the challenges of post-crisis backlash across Europe, she holds firm to her belief of maintaining compassion and acknowledging displacement's impact.
Merkel’s memoir serves as both personal reflection and political commentary during uneasy times, especially as she pointed out Germany’s shifting dynamics and relations with key international players like the United States and China. After stepping down, her political insights offer much to ponder, especially as many countries face economic pressures.
The book's publication coincides with intense global political shifts, including former U.S. President Donald Trump’s return to campaigning. Merkel emphasizes the importance of Europe unifying against the threats posed by autocracy and military might from countries like Russia and China. "We must expect the unexpected from Trump, especially concerning defense and diplomatic ventures. Understanding how to respond to strong and outspoken leaders is key,” she asserted.
Despite all her efforts to navigate crises and implement significant reforms, Merkel admits to critics who argue she lacked urgency for transformative changes during her tenure, acknowledging challenges exist for now and the future. "Germany faces new challenges, including digitalization and climate concerns, which require modernized approaches to governance,” she said.
Overall, Freedom is not merely Merkel's retrospective; it acts as her manifesto for hope, urging future leaders to strive for unity amid chaos and division on the global stage. With increasing scrutiny from various corners about the past and what lies ahead, she makes it clear: she bears no regrets for doing what she believed was right during her tenure. Nearly three years after exiting the political arena, when asked if she misses the power of leadership, Merkel responded, "Not at all. I believe the role of being Germany’s chancellor is done; it’s time for new voices.”
