Merkel's Law

June 1, 2024
A New York Times Berlin correspondent explores the remarkable political tenure of former German chancellor Angela Merkel. Before the election of Donald Trump in 2016, the U.S. was the global champion of liberal democracy. After that, many observers turned to Germany, headed by then-chancellor Merkel, as the new leader of the free world. Eddy examines Merkel's life and political career not just in terms of what she achieved, but also in terms of what they can teach both leaders and citizens about how "to lead on any level, or simply to live with integrity." At the heart of Merkel's power was her ability to resist expectations to fit any molds. She never let the fact she was a female in a sexist, male-dominated government and society stand in her way. Instead, she focused intensely on the work of governing, brushing off superficial criticisms about her appearance and attire until they became nonissues. Turning weaknesses into strengths, she used every part of her unique background to her advantage. Eddy notes that Merkel's training as a research scientist taught her to consider "all sides of an option," even though doing so made her appear indecisive. She also remarks that Merkel's outsider status as an East German taught her the art of building alliances, which later helped her save the European Union during the financial crisis of 2008. When the ex-chancellor allowed Syrian and African refugees into Germany between 2015 and 2016, she displayed not only a desire to move beyond Germany's brutal Nazi past, but the moral courage to stand down opposition from critics. As Eddy honors the woman who helped rebuild and reshape a formerly divided country, she suggests that despite the messiness of the democratic process, it still offers the most humane way forward for all in an increasingly unstable world. Good reading for chaotic times.

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