Germany's Influence Tested at 2026 Davos Forum Amid Trump's Dominance and Environmental Policy Push

At the 2026 World Economic Forum in Davos, Germany found itself navigating a complex diplomatic landscape marked by efforts to promote environmental policy and managing the overshadowing presence of former U.S. President Donald Trump. Chancellor Friedrich Merz attended the forum with key ministers, including Environment Minister Carsten Schneider—his first time at Davos—to seek allies supporting Germany's progressive environmental agenda. However, Germany's ability to assert its influence on the global stage appeared diminished amid political setbacks and the prominence of Trump's controversial statements.

Trump's speech at Davos, characterized by unpredictable rhetoric and controversial views on Europe and Greenland, captured media attention and dominated the event, relegating Germany to a more passive role. Despite Merz's approval of Trump's approach to resolving the Greenland conflict, emphasizing that threats to European territory are unacceptable, Germany did not robustly counter Trump's claims. Merz warned that new tariffs could jeopardize transatlantic relations but insisted Europe would respond "closed, calm, appropriate, and strong."

The backdrop of Germany's waning influence is compounded by internal political complexities, including the Green Party's contentious alliance with far-right factions during the EU Parliament's vote on the Mercosur trade agreement. This development has sparked criticism and raised questions about Germany's political strategy and its standing in global diplomacy.

Chancellor Merz's presence in Davos underscored a strategic attempt to rally support for environmental initiatives and reaffirm Germany's role in international affairs, yet the event highlighted the challenges the country faces in balancing domestic political dynamics and external pressures. The outcome of the forum positions Germany at a critical juncture where maintaining its leadership on environmental issues and managing transatlantic relations amid global uncertainty remains a pressing challenge.