Beyond Merkel – The Future of Germany in an Age of Uncertainty

This year marks the end of an era in German and European politics: Angela Merkel, the ever "reluctant leader of the West," will end her historic tenure as Chancellor. During the past 16 years, Chancellor Merkel has symbolised continuity, predictability, and stability for many European and international partners. But the world has become a less predictable and stable place during her tenure: Germany now faces a watershed moment for its European and international policy. Against this backdrop, Cathryn Clüver Ashbrook reflects on how changing transatlantic ties, a challenging economic and political relationship with China, the recovering economy in Europe and the Eurozone and the weakening of the democratic fabric across Europe will dictate foreign policy options for the next German Chancellor.