Actors, Structures and Strategies: Policy Continuity and Change under the German Grand Coalition (2005-09)

The introductory article to a special issue on, "Grand Coalition as Systemic Transformation? German Experience," focuses on how conditions during Germany's second Grand Coalition under Chancellor Angela Merkel (2005-09) enhanced substantial policy changes. The contributors examine the dynamics of coalition politics & the extent/type of changes implemented. An overview of the historical background of Grand Coalitions notes the reluctance to embrace them federally even though formal Social Democrats/Christian Democrats coalitions have been common at the state level. Devices of "negotiation" democracy are described, including government by commission, neo-corporatist mechanics, & informal & formal (less favored) coalitions. The first section deals with such crucial aspects of the dilemma surrounding Grand Coalitions as the structural context of policymaking, party strategies, & inter-party conflicts. "Policy" is the focus of the second section. It is concluded that the Grand Coalition overcame major gridlock & implemented major policy changes in relation to family, health, & pensions but there was mixed success in other areas & only modest systemic transformation. A synopsis of each article is included. J. Lindroth