Germany news: Sugar tax plan leaves sour taste
Germany's plans for a sugar tax are facing growing opposition amid claims that it's more about raising revenue than health. DW has the latest.
Germany's Chancellor Friedrich Merz and his Cabinet are returning from the summer recess, facing a series of challenges as they prepare for regional elections in September. Recent opinion polls suggest the far-right Alternative for Germany party (AfD) has a significant lead, with 42% support, followed closely by the Christian Democratic Union (CDU) with 22%.
The socialist Left Party (die Linke) is third with 11%. The Social Democrats and the Greens, however, have minute support, with 8% and 6% respectively, making it difficult for them to form a ruling majority.
A recent DW Fact Check campaign uncovered numerous fake posts trying to create divisions in Germany, which experts say is a coordinated campaign by Russia. Chancellor Merz and his Cabinet face numerous challenges due to a shaky economy and low polls. The government also plans to introduce new security laws to combat hybrid attacks, which are expected to increase. Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt emphasized the need to strengthen Germany's intelligence services to counter foreign threats.
Written by urgent.news from DW News's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
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