On May 6, 2025, the CDU leader Friedrich Merz is set to be elected as Chancellor of Germany, marking a significant shift in the nation’s political landscape. The new government, a coalition between the CDU and SPD, has unveiled its lineup of ministers, introducing a mix of experienced politicians and fresh faces.
Among the key appointments, Johann Wadephul has taken the role of Foreign Minister, a position held by the CDU for the first time in nearly 60 years. Wadephul, 62, previously served as the deputy parliamentary leader responsible for foreign and defense policy. He is noted for his international connections, having recently met with foreign ministers in Paris, London, and Warsaw.
Katherina Reiche, 51, has been appointed Minister for Economy and Energy. Reiche, who has led the energy service provider Westenergie since January 2000, was previously expected to be replaced by CDU General Secretary Carsten Linnemann, who ultimately chose to remain in his party role.
Karin Prien, 59, has been named Minister for Education, Family Affairs, Seniors, Women, and Youth. She has served as the Education Minister in Schleswig-Holstein since 2017 and has a background in law and local politics, having previously worked as a lawyer specializing in economic and insolvency law.
Nina Warken, 45, is another surprising pick, becoming the Minister of Health. Warken, who has focused on legal issues in parliament, was largely unknown as a health policy expert prior to her appointment. She has been the General Secretary of the CDU in Baden-Württemberg since 2023.
Patrick Schnieder, 56, has been appointed Minister of Transport. A member of the Bundestag since 2009, Schnieder has emphasized his commitment to improving infrastructure in rural areas.
Karsten Wildberger, 55, takes on the newly created role of Minister for Digitalization and State Modernization. Previously a leader at MediaMarkt and Saturn, Wildberger is expected to bring a business-oriented approach to the government.
Thorsten Frei, 51, will head the Federal Chancellery. Frei, who has been a key figure in the CDU party structure, is expected to facilitate smooth collaboration within the new government.
In the CSU appointments, Alexander Dobrindt, 54, has been named Minister of the Interior, a role critical for implementing the Union's migration policy. Dobrindt has a history in the party, having served as the General Secretary of the CSU from 2009 to 2013.
Dorothee Bär, 47, returns as Minister for Research, Technology, and Aerospace. She previously served in this capacity under Chancellor Angela Merkel and achieved a notable electoral success in February, garnering the highest vote share in her constituency.
Alois Rainer, 60, will serve as Minister of Food, Agriculture, and Home Affairs. He has been a Bundestag member since 2013, and his appointment follows the withdrawal of the initially suggested candidate.
Lars Klingbeil, the current SPD leader, has been appointed Vice Chancellor and Minister of Finance. His rapid ascent in the SPD has positioned him as a significant player in the government, and his focus on finance may pave the way for a future candidacy for Chancellor.
Bärbel Bas, 56, has been named Minister of Labour and Social Affairs. Known for her straightforward approach, Bas has built a reputation as a competent leader during her tenure as Bundestag President.
Boris Pistorius, 65, retains his role as Minister of Defence. His popularity and assertive stance on military readiness have made him a well-regarded figure in this pivotal position.
Stefanie Hubig, 56, has been appointed Minister of Justice. A seasoned politician, she has been involved in educational policy and has a background in legal affairs.
Verena Hubertz, 37, is the new Minister for Housing, Urban Development, and Construction. She has quickly risen within the SPD ranks, having previously negotiated significant policy issues within the coalition.
Carsten Schneider, 49, will lead the Environment and Climate Protection ministry, bringing experience from his previous role as a state minister focused on equal living conditions in eastern Germany.
Finally, Reem Alabali-Radovan, 35, has been appointed Minister for Economic Cooperation and Development. Born in Moscow and having fled political turmoil in Iraq, Alabali-Radovan has made a name for herself as an advocate against racial profiling in her previous role as Integration Commissioner.
The new cabinet reflects a blend of continuity and change, with several former parliamentary state secretaries (PStS) stepping into ministerial roles. Notably, Katherina Reiche, Dorothee Bär, Carsten Schneider, and Reem Alabali-Radovan have transitioned from PStS to ministers, highlighting the evolving landscape of German politics.
This new government under Chancellor Merz is poised to tackle pressing issues, from economic recovery and digital transformation to climate protection and social policy. As the coalition settles into its roles, the effectiveness of this diverse cabinet will be closely watched by both supporters and critics alike.
