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He is widely recognized as the current leader of the Christian Democratic Union (CDU), Germany's leading conservative party. Merz’s career has been defined by his conservative economic views, pro-business policies, and efforts to revive the CDU in the post-Merkel era. From his early days as a lawyer to his leadership of the CDU, Merz has left a significant mark on German politics.

Who is Friedrich Merz: Education, Career Politics, and Net Worth

Early Life and Education

  • Born: November 11, 1955
  • Hometown: Brilon, North Rhine-Westphalia, West Germany

Friedrich Merz grew up in a conservative Catholic family in the rural Sauerland region. His father, Joachim Merz, was a judge who instilled a strong sense of discipline and ambition in him.

Merz attended Gymnasium Petrinum in Brilon, where he demonstrated early leadership qualities and a sharp intellect. He later studied law and political science at the University of Bonn and the University of Marburg, two of Germany’s most prestigious universities. After completing his studies, he passed his state law exams in 1982, officially becoming a lawyer.

Political Career

1. Early Political Involvement

Merz began his political career in 1972 when he joined the Junge Union, the CDU’s youth wing, at the age of 17. His early involvement laid the foundation for his rise within the CDU, where he established himself as a committed conservative with a talent for debate and policy-making.

In 1989, Merz was elected to the European Parliament, where he served until 1994. During this time, he focused on financial and trade policies, gaining experience in international and European affairs.

2. Rise in the Bundestag

In 1994, Merz transitioned to the Bundestag, representing the state of North Rhine-Westphalia. Over the next 15 years, he became one of the most influential figures within the CDU.

  • Leader of the CDU/CSU Parliamentary Group (2000-2002):

    In 2000, Merz was elected leader of the CDU/CSU parliamentary group, effectively becoming the opposition leader in the Bundestag.

    • He proposed bold economic reforms, including a simplified tax system, famously suggesting a “tax return on a single A4 sheet of paper.”
    • He also advocated for stricter immigration policies, emphasizing cultural integration and the need for immigrants to adopt German values.

However, Merz’s rise coincided with the ascendancy of Angela Merkel. As Merkel consolidated power within the CDU, Merz’s influence waned. By 2002, Merkel replaced him as parliamentary group leader, forcing him into a secondary role.

3. Exit from Politics and Corporate Career (2009–2018)

In 2009, after years of declining influence within the CDU, Merz left politics to pursue a career in the private sector.

  • Corporate Roles:
    • Merz became a lawyer and business consultant, serving on the boards of several major companies.
    • In 2016, he was appointed chairman of BlackRock Germany, the German arm of the world’s largest asset management firm.

Merz’s time in the corporate world was financially lucrative and allowed him to build strong connections within Germany’s business community. However, he remained politically active, frequently commenting on CDU policies and positioning himself as a potential future leader.

Return to Politics and CDU Leadership

1. Attempted Comebacks

Merz re-entered politics in 2018, shortly after Angela Merkel announced her retirement as CDU leader. He ran for party leadership but lost narrowly to Annegret Kramp-Karrenbauer (AKK). He made another attempt in 2021 but was defeated by Armin Laschet.

2. Becoming CDU Leader (2022-Present)

In January 2022, Merz was finally elected CDU leader following Laschet’s resignation after the party’s poor performance in the 2021 federal elections.

As leader, Merz faces the challenging task of rebuilding the CDU’s reputation and voter base. Key challenges include:

  • Countering the rise of the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD).
  • Adapting the CDU to a changing political landscape, including addressing climate change and the energy crisis.
  • Reasserting the CDU as a strong opposition to Olaf Scholz’s government.

Political Views and Policies

  1. Economic Policies:

    • Merz is a staunch advocate of fiscal conservatism, emphasizing tax cuts and reduced government spending.
    • He supports deregulation and free-market policies to enhance Germany’s global competitiveness.

  2. Immigration and Integration:

    • Merz calls for stricter immigration controls and policies to ensure immigrants integrate into German society.
    • He emphasizes the importance of learning the German language and adhering to cultural norms.

  3. European Union:

    • Merz is a pro-European politician who supports deeper integration within the EU.
    • He advocates for stronger European leadership in global issues, such as climate change and international security.

  4. Climate and Energy:

    • While critical of the Green Party’s approach, Merz recognizes the need for Germany to transition to renewable energy.
    • He supports nuclear energy as part of a balanced energy strategy.

​​​​​​​Net Worth and Achievements

Merz’s time in the corporate sector has made him one of the wealthiest politicians in Germany. While exact figures are not publicly available, his wealth is estimated to be in the multi-million euro range, largely due to his role at BlackRock and other corporate positions.

His achievements include:

  • Successfully balancing careers in politics and business.
  • Modernizing the CDU’s policy platform in response to 21st-century challenges.

Significance in German Politics

Friedrich Merz represents a return to the CDU’s conservative roots after Angela Merkel’s centrist leadership. While he has been praised for his economic expertise and leadership qualities, he also faces criticism for being too traditional and out of touch with younger voters.

As CDU leader, Merz’s ability to rejuvenate the party and counter emerging political threats will determine his legacy in German politics.

Personal Life

Family:

Friedrich Merz is married to Charlotte Merz, a respected judge. The couple has three children and resides in Arnsberg, North Rhine-Westphalia.

Hobbies:

Merz is an avid pilot and holds a private pilot’s license. He often flies small planes in his free time, which reflects his passion for aviation and adventure.