CDU at a Glance

Flag of Germany

Christlich Demokratische Union

Christian Democratic Union

Political Compass
Conservative
Social
Market-oriented
Progressive
Stance on the EU
Anti-EU
Pro-EU
The CDU is a Christian Democratic, conservative, and economically liberal centrist party. It sees itself as a foundational pillar of the state, uniting tradition with progress, and firmly anchoring Germany within the Western community of values and the European Union.

Values and Worldview

The CDU's foundation is rooted in Christian values, from which its core principles of freedom, solidarity, and justice are derived. While the party champions individual responsibility, it also sees the state as a guiding force within the framework of the Social Market Economy. Its societal vision is shaped by subsidiarity, advocating that problems should first be addressed at the smallest possible unit, such as the family or local community. Patriotism and a firm commitment to a resilient democracy define its understanding of the state.

Policy Priorities

The CDU aims to appeal to a broad electorate, encompassing workers, the middle class, and religiously conservative segments. Its platform prioritizes sound fiscal policies, reducing bureaucracy, and bolstering Germany's economic standing. In domestic policy, the party advocates for a strong state that consistently ensures security and public order. Socially, it adopts a conservative stance, emphasizing the importance of the traditional family and pursuing a controlled migration policy that views integration as a commitment to the prevailing national culture.

Role in the Political System

As Germany's archetypal "Chancellor's party," the CDU defines itself through its capacity for governance and stability. Within the political landscape, it occupies the center-right, serving as a bulwark against political extremes. Its relationship with institutions is characterized by profound respect and a commitment to continuity. Strategically, the party frequently navigates the challenge of retaining its conservative core voters while simultaneously appealing to liberal swing voters in urban areas.

Latest Regional Polls

Current Polling

0
10
20
30
40+

Swing since last election

-5
0
5+

Current polls in states with upcoming elections and changes since the last vote

View all state polls

Key Policy Areas & Ideological Alignment

This chart illustrates the key issues for the party. Points further from the center indicate higher significance.

Core Positions & Policy Platforms

Stance 2024
Stance 2019

Economy & State

Wealth Redistribution
Pro-Redistribution
Market-Driven
Fiscal Policy
Public Investment
Austerity & Tax Cuts
Trade Policy
Free Trade
Protectionism

Society & Values

Civil Liberties vs. Security
Civil Liberties
Law & Order
Gender Equality Measures
Pro-Promotion
Against Promotion
LGBTQ+ Equality
Pro-Equality
Traditional Values
Same-Sex Marriage
Pro-Marriage
Against
Religion in Politics
Secularism
Religious Influence
Urban vs. Rural Priority
Focus on Urban Areas
Focus on Rural Areas

Environment & Climate

Environment vs. Economy: What's More Important?
Environmental Protection Over Economic Growth
Economic Growth Over Environmental Protection
Climate Action vs. Economic Growth
Climate Protection First
Economic Growth First

Migration & Integration

Immigration Policy
Open
Restrictive
Integration & Culture
Multiculturalism
Assimilation
Rights for Ethnic Minorities
Expand Rights
Equal Treatment Only
National Sovereignty
Cosmopolitan
Nationalist

Democracy & Institutions

Executive Power Distribution
Decentralized
Strong Executive
Judicial Independence
Independent
Executive Oversight
State Organization
Federalism
Centralism

Historical Election Results

CDU: Election Result Trends in Germany

Latest Regional Election Results

Current Government Roles of CDU

Current Roles in Regional and National Governments

History of Government Participation since 1945

Power Dynamics: Historical Government Roles
Leading Government
In Government
0

Total Cabinet Participations

Total Duration: -

0

Cabinets Led

Total Duration: -

0

Coalition Participations

Total Duration: -

0%

Time in Government

The party participated in government for 0% of the legislative period.

No historical government involvement

Data Sources and Methodology

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ParlGov – Parliamentary Democracy Data

A comprehensive research database from the University of Bremen, documenting parties, elections, and governments for comparative analysis.

Additional Sources

Döring, Holger and Philip Manow. 2024. Parliaments and governments database (ParlGov).

CHES – Chapel Hill Expert Survey

The leading expert survey on party positions in Europe. Over 400 political scientists document party stances based on rigorous scientific criteria.

Additional Sources

Rovny, Jan, et al. “25 Years of Political Party Positions in Europe: The Chapel Hill Expert Survey, 1999-2024.”