Germany prepares for crucial parliamentary elections as coalition collapses

Germany will hold parliamentary elections this weekend after Chancellor Olaf Scholz's coalition collapsed late last year. Polls suggest his Social Democrats may only return as a junior partner, while Friedrich Merz's Christian Democrats are favored to win. The far-right Alternative for Germany party is projected to secure around 20% of the vote, significantly increasing its support since the last election. This marks a shift in German politics, as Merz's party has recently engaged with the AFD, breaking a long-standing consensus against cooperation with far-right groups. The elections were moved up from September due to the coalition's failure. Results will be announced shortly after polls close, with coalition negotiations expected to follow, likely excluding the AFD from discussions.