Friedrich Merz Gets Full Backing from NRW's Hendrik Wüst for Reform Package

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz announced a 34‑point reform package aimed at revitalising the economy. The plan includes pension reforms that raise the retirement age, income‑tax cuts of about €600 per low‑ and middle‑income household (≈€10 bn annually), stricter sick‑leave rules, expansion of flexible contracts and a broad bureaucracy reduction. Merz said the reforms will put Germany “back on its feet” and promised “very good years ahead” for the country.

North‑Rhine‑Westphalia Minister‑President Hendrik Wüst, also chair of the state CDU, pledged “volle Rückendeckung” for the package, calling it a comprehensive and commendable agreement covering pensions, health insurance, family relief and tax reforms. Wüst emphasized the strategic importance of the NRW CDU as the Union’s “power centre”. Both leaders framed the reforms as a joint effort of the coalition to secure growth ahead of the state election in 2027 and to improve Germany’s competitiveness.

The reforms are slated for parliamentary approval by the end of 2026, with tax changes to start in 2027 and pension adjustments phased in thereafter.