Friedrich Merz is set to become Germany's 10th post-World War II chancellor after winning the national election. He has pledged to prioritize European unity and security amidst challenges from the new U.S. administration and Russia's actions in Ukraine.
Merz faces the task of uniting a divided Europe, with many leaders focused on domestic issues. Expectations are high for him to lead a united response to recent U.S. policy shifts that strained the transatlantic alliance.
Despite his victory, Merz must form a coalition with the center-left Social Democrats and has vowed not to work with the far-right Alternative for Germany party.
The 69-year-old conservative leader, a lawyer by profession, has not previously served in government. His rivalry with former Chancellor Angela Merkel was marked by a desire for leadership.
After a break from politics, Merz resumed his political career in 2018 and was elected party leader in 2021. He has emphasized revitalizing Germany's economy and addressing irregular migration.
Merz's top priority is to unify Europe in the face of challenges from the U.S. and Russia. He has faced criticism for his stance on immigration but maintains he has not collaborated with the far right.
Rooted in rural Germany, Merz champions conservative values and family importance. A pilot in his free time, he finds freedom in flying his own plane from his home in western Germany to Berlin.
Merz's journey to the chancellorship reflects his commitment to leadership and navigating complex political landscapes.
