Editorial Board

Germany's Harsh Reckoning Is Also an Opportunity

Olaf Scholz’s YOLO move to blow up his government could be the greatest accomplishment of his chancellorship.

November 11, 2024 at 3:10 PM UTC

By The Editorial Board

The Editorial Board publishes the views of the editors across a range of national and global affairs.

Congratulations.
Photographer: Sean Gallup/Getty Images

Provide news feedback or report an error

Site feedback:

Take our Survey

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz has added political uncertainty to Europe’s angst over the impending presidency of Donald Trump, blowing up his government and calling for snap elections that might not take place for months.

If his decision helps break the political impasse holding back Europe’s largest economy, it’s not a moment too soon.