Germany’s Election Delays Questioned Over Paper Shortage Claims

Germany’s Federal Election Director Ruth Brand has raised eyebrows with her claims that a paper shortage could prevent early elections. In a letter to Chancellor Olaf Scholz, Brand warned of “incalculable risks” associated with organizing a snap election, citing challenges in procuring sufficient paper for ballots.

The claims have been met with skepticism from the paper industry. Alexander von Reibnitz, managing director of Germany’s paper industry association, dismissed concerns about supply issues. “The clear answer is yes. If ordered in time, we can supply the paper needed for an early federal election,” von Reibnitz told ZDF, a state media outlet.

Germany, the EU’s largest paper producer, manufactured nearly 13 million cubic meters of paper in 2020, making the shortage narrative even harder to believe. By comparison, the administration used 3,800 tons of printer paper in 2022, a similar amount to what would be required for a federal election.

Critics have suggested the paper issue might be a convenient excuse for Scholz, who has resisted pressure to call an early vote. Following the collapse of his coalition, the chancellor has sought to delay a confidence vote until January, but calls for elections before Christmas have grown louder as Germany’s economy faces mounting challenges.

Even neighboring Poland has offered to assist. “If Germany needs printers and paper, we will definitely sell both to our neighbors,” said Polish MEP Dariusz Jonski, noting the potential for Polish companies to benefit economically.
In a surprising turn, Scholz agreed to move up the vote of confidence, signaling he would abide by an agreement between SPD parliamentary leader Rolf Mützenich and CDU opposition leader Friedrich Merz. “I am not clinging to my office,” Scholz said, easing fears of a prolonged political stalemate.

The debate over paper supplies has underscored tensions as Germany grapples with political and economic uncertainty. Critics argue that logistical challenges should not hinder democratic processes, especially when solutions are readily available.

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