Episode 109: Angela Merkel’s Legacy

Germany’s longest-serving chancellor of the twenty-first century was also uniquely successful; Angela Merkel left office after sixteen years with an approval rating of over 70 percent. As Germany must now manage underinvestment in infrastructure, rebuilding the armed forces, the rise of the populist far-right, and Russia’s war in Ukraine, her policies have been widely scrutinized. On her 70th birthday, we discuss Angela Merkel’s legacy—her impact and leadership in Germany and the Christian Democratic Union—with Dr. Sarah Wiliarty. Host Jeff Rathke, President, AGI Guests Eric Langenbacher, Senior Fellow; Director, Society, Culture & Politics Program, AGI Sarah Wiliarty, Associate Professor of Government, Wesleyan University