CSU at a Glance

Flag of Germany

Christlich Soziale Union

Christian Social Union

Political Compass
Conservative
Social
Market-oriented
Progressive
Stance on the EU
Anti-EU
Pro-EU
The CSU is a conservative, Christian-social people's party that exclusively contests elections in Bavaria. As a civic force, it combines regional identity with a clear claim to national political power, emphasizing Christian fundamental values and the social market economy.

Values and Worldview

The CSU's foundation is rooted in the Christian understanding of humanity, which intertwines freedom with responsibility and solidarity. The party sees itself as Bavaria's voice with a global outlook and actively promotes a pronounced federalism. It adheres to a conservative societal vision, where traditions, the nuclear family, and a strong state order serve as anchors of stability. Patriotism and a deep connection to one's homeland are central motifs guiding state action, striving for a balance between preservation and progress.

Policy Priorities

The CSU's agenda appeals to a broad electorate, encompassing farmers, small and medium-sized businesses, and industrial workers. Key demands include a restrictive immigration policy, robust internal security through a strong rule of law, and pro-business policies that foster technological innovation. The party vigorously champions regional interests and infrastructure development in rural areas. Its objective is to secure Bavaria's position as an economic powerhouse while upholding social security systems based on personal responsibility and merit.

Role in the Political System

Within the German party system, the CSU holds a unique position: through its parliamentary alliance with the CDU, it exerts federal political influence that extends far beyond its regional electoral base. Strategically, it often acts as the 'conservative conscience' of the Union, aiming to consolidate the right wing of the civic spectrum. Its relationship with state institutions is characterized by high loyalty, consistently advocating for a strict interpretation of law and order within the rule of law, and defending the autonomy of the federal states against central government overreach.

Latest Regional Polls

Current Polling

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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

CSU: Election Result Trends in Germany

Latest Regional Election Results

Current Government Roles of CSU

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.”