German Chancellor Merz Issues Stark Warning on Global Order Collapse at Davos Forum
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz delivered a sweeping and forceful address at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, warning that the post-Cold War global order is rapidly collapsing. In his comprehensive speech, Merz declared that the world has entered a new era of great power politics driven primarily by strength, pressure, and force rather than diplomacy and international cooperation.
Unprecedented Strain on International Norms and Law
Merz pointed to multiple geopolitical developments that are contributing to this fundamental shift. He specifically highlighted Russia's ongoing war against Ukraine, China's continued rise as a strategic global power, and what he described as a fundamental transformation in United States foreign and security policy. The Chancellor argued that these factors are placing international law and long-standing diplomatic norms under unprecedented strain, creating instability across multiple regions.
Historical Perspective and Warnings
Drawing on Germany's own turbulent history, Merz issued a stark warning about the dangers of a world governed purely by power dynamics. He emphasized that such an environment would be particularly hazardous for smaller states and middle powers, but ultimately would also prove detrimental to the great powers themselves. The Chancellor stressed that sustainable global stability requires frameworks that go beyond mere military or economic might.
Call for a Stronger, More Sovereign Europe
In response to these challenges, Merz called for a stronger and more sovereign Europe capable of asserting itself on the global stage. He outlined several key areas for reform, including:
- Deep economic restructuring to enhance competitiveness
- Significant reduction of bureaucratic hurdles
- Renewed focus on innovation and technological advancement
The Chancellor specifically defended the Mercosur trade deal as an important economic partnership while criticizing what he described as Europe's culture of over-regulation that stifles growth and initiative.
Economic and Security Policy Announcements
Merz announced plans for a special European Union summit dedicated to resetting economic policy in light of current global challenges. On security matters, he reaffirmed Europe's unwavering commitment to the NATO alliance while acknowledging that trust within the transatlantic partnership needs repair rather than abandonment.
The Chancellor made explicit pledges of German solidarity with Denmark and Greenland, stating clearly that NATO would protect the High North region from potential Russian threats. He warned that any attempts to acquire European territory by force or impose unfair tariffs would be met with a united and firm European response.
Merz's address at Davos represents one of the most comprehensive statements on European strategic thinking in recent years, combining historical perspective with concrete policy proposals for navigating an increasingly complex global landscape.
