Former German Chancellor Angela Merkel has called on citizens to "stand up" for democracy ahead of the state election in Saxony-Anhalt, where the far-right Alternative for Germany party (AfD) is leading in polls. Speaking at a political event in Berlin on Saturday, Merkel emphasized that the majority of Germans do not support the AfD. She stated, "I believe that now, once again — something we haven't had to do for many decades — we must really fight for this democracy, simply stand up for it, be a little brave, stand by our word and say that this is a wonderful way to live." Merkel noted that the AfD has dominated political discussions, leading to a lack of awareness among voters regarding the policies of other parties. She remarked that the rise of the AfD is not confined to eastern Germany, calling it a "pan-German phenomenon."
In other news, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz's government plans to hold Moscow accountable for the Leipzig drone incident that occurred in early August. Reports indicate that Berlin will announce extensive sanctions in the coming days, although specific measures have not been disclosed. On August 4, a drone with explosives was found near Ukrainian cargo planes at Leipzig/Halle Airport, which is a hub for military aid to Ukraine. Merz stated that the government would soon identify those responsible for the incident.
A study by the Cologne-based German Economic Institute (IW) revealed that German firms paid a record €85.6 billion ($111 billion) in wages to employees on sick leave last year, a significant increase from €36.9 billion in 2010. The rise is attributed to wage increases, inflation, and a growing number of employees eligible for sick leave. Additionally, the average sick leave taken by German workers has increased to 19.5 days per year, compared to about 13 days in 2018. To address this, the government will ban patients from obtaining sick notes by phone starting in January.
Volkswagen's second-largest shareholder, Olaf Lies, has urged for a restructuring plan for the company to be agreed upon soon, highlighting the challenges VW faces, including tariffs and competition from China. The supervisory board is scheduled to meet on September 4 to discuss a turnaround plan, which may involve job cuts.
A poll by the Forsa research institute found that 67% of Germans believe the United States has more influence on Germany since President Donald Trump's return to office, while only 11% think there is less influence.
The Taliban has sent a delegation to Germany to assist in the deportation of Afghan nationals, a move that has sparked controversy as Germany does not recognize the Taliban government. Critics argue that this legitimizes the Taliban's authority.
The youth wing of the AfD has diverged from party leadership by opposing a call for Germany to leave the euro currency, instead advocating for reforms to address structural flaws in the euro system.
A fire at a refugee shelter in Berlin on Saturday morning resulted in the evacuation of hundreds of residents, with four individuals treated for smoke inhalation. The cause of the fire is under investigation.