Linnemann warns: CDU is in a serious identity crisis!

Linnemann warns: CDU is in a serious identity crisis!

In the festive atmosphere of the “Achtermann” hotel in Goslar, where the CDU celebrated its 75th anniversary last Saturday, General Secretary Carsten Linnemann called on the young generation of the Union to “think outside the box”. According to Welt, the occasion was not only a reason to celebrate, but also the challenges and identity crisis of the party were the focus of his keynote speech. He regretted that among the current party leadership it was mainly himself who was present, while chairman Friedrich Merz and many other members were missing.

The CDU, which has won 17 of 20 federal elections since its founding in 1950, when Konrad Adenauer was elected as its first leader, and has provided chancellor for over five decades, is increasingly confronted with the challenges of modern politics. Linnemann, in office since July 12, 2023, called for a return to the party roots and emphasized the need for more courage, less bureaucracy and significant social reforms, without, however, making any concrete proposals.

Contradiction and change

In his speech, Linnemann made it clear that the CDU's identity crisis was triggered not only by competition from the AfD, but also by the distractions that today's generation experiences from social media. Interestingly, Linnemann indirectly referred to CSU boss Markus Söder. “In order to be successful, you have to face opposition from time to time,” he quoted the former CDU chairman Adenauer, calling for a more open, honest debate.

The federal political context must not be neglected. Johann Wadephul caused discussions internally when he questioned the return of Syrians from Germany in the Bundestag faction. This underlines the tensions and debates that are currently shaping the CDU. In Goslar, the celebration finally came to an end with a social gathering where the members were able to maintain contacts.

A look at Carsten Linnemann

Carsten Christoph Linnemann, born on August 10, 1977 in Paderborn, has established himself as a key voice within the CDU since joining the German Bundestag in 2009. With an economically liberal and socio-politically conservative approach, he belongs to the right wing of the party. His political career began in the Junge Union, where he was chairman from 1997 to 2001. He was also significantly active as chairman of the SME and Economic Union and, among other things, called for the reintroduction of the requirement for master craftsmen in skilled trades.

His political ideas are diverse: Linnemann advocates a social year for school leavers and has made proposals for an “active pension” and an Islamic law. His controversial views on social issues and the possibility of compulsory preschool for children who have difficulties with the German language show that he is not afraid of contradiction. So he is not only a party official, but also someone who is willing to initiate discussions.

With a celebratory look back and the challenge for the future, Linnemann is called upon to lead the CDU out of its identity crisis and to break new ground. The next steps must also address the concerns and wishes of the younger generations in order to get the party back on track. The 75th anniversary not only offers a look back, but also an incentive to shape the future.