Yes, is it already Sunday Advent? - Germany’s coalition races to finalize reforms before critical budget vote
A busy week of political decisions and major incidents has unfolded across Germany and beyond. In Berlin, coalition leaders finalised key reforms ahead of a crucial budget vote, while emergencies in Washington, Hong Kong, and Cologne demanded urgent responses. Meanwhile, the Advent season begins this weekend, marking a shift in focus for many.
On Friday, November 28, the Union and SPD will present the results of their coalition committee meeting. Friedrich Merz and SPD leaders gathered earlier in the day to settle disputes over pension reform, the phase-out of combustion engines, the heating law, and health insurance savings. Their decisions will be announced at a 9:30 AM press conference, just before the Bundestag votes on the 2026 budget.
The coalition's reforms will now face a Bundestag vote, with pensions and energy policies at the forefront. Emergency responses in Washington, Hong Kong, and Cologne have stabilised, though investigations and recovery efforts continue. As Advent begins, the contrast between political tension and seasonal calm becomes especially clear.
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