Germany's plan to bypass Bundestag raises democracy concerns

Germany plans to bypass its newly elected Bundestag to lift the Debt Brake, allowing an additional €500 billion in borrowing. The vote is scheduled for March 18, but will be conducted by the outgoing Bundestag, including MPs who lost their seats. Critics warn this move undermines democratic norms, as it enables defeated MPs to influence constitutional changes. The coalition of the Social Democratic Party and the centre-right CDU/CSU aims to secure support from the Greens to pass the measure. The Debt Brake, established in 2009 to limit government borrowing, could be lifted, raising Germany's national debt significantly. Opponents argue this could lead to long-term instability and set a dangerous precedent for other eurozone countries.