On Sunday, the key posts were announced for Chancellor Merkel’s new cabinet. Craig Morris says a number of appointments make it clear that the new government aims to do what Germans do best: find a consensus. The Social Democrat Sigmar Gabriel (SPD) has been appointed “Super Minister” for economy and energy. The last time anyone held the title was Wolfgang Clement, who became Minister of Economics and Labor (merging what was previously two ministries). From 2002-2005, Clement ensured that then-Chancellor Schroeder’s plans to reform unemployment benefits went forward. The policy was a major challenge to the German social safety net, something Germans generally held dear – especially those in the SPD. Schroeder’s policy split his party. This time, Germany faces yet another giant task – the Energiewende. I must admit I was not too pleased upon hearing that Gabriel, who previously held the post of Environmental Minister from 2005-2009, is taking charge of the energy transition. His stance on community ownership – energy democracy – is unclear. And while you might expect him to generally … Continue reading What Germany’s new cabinet means for the Energiewende