The collapse of discipline in German politics

Backbench revolts, weak party leaders and public anger are becoming normal in Germany — symptoms of a deeper crisis affecting democracies across Europe.

Dear Reader,

It is happening inside the national parliament. It is happening inside the major political parties. It is happening in the upper house. It is happening inside the coalition. It is even happening in the usually sedate arena of state parliaments. And it is happening in the relationship between governors and governed.

Rebellion, freelancing, a growing disregard for hierarchy and impatience for quick results are creeping into German political life.

An example you may have missed: on Wednesday, Cem Özdemir was confirmed by the state parliament in Baden-Württemberg as the southern state’s new leader. After winning the state election in March and agreeing a coalition pact with the CDU, the Green politician’s approval vote was supposed to be a formality. Once upon a time, it was normal for a new state leader to receive the full backing of his coalition in a symbolic show of unity. Instead, 19 coalition lawmakers rebelled, meaning his majority was far smaller than it should have been…