Volker Wissing Reflects on Empathy Failure and Ideological Shifts Leading to Ampel Coalition Collapse

On November 6, 2024, a decisive moment occurred when Chancellor Olaf Scholz asked Transport Minister Volker Wissing if he would remain in the government following the dismissal of Finance Minister Christian Lindner amid fierce disputes over economic policy. Wissing chose to stay, taking on the Justice portfolio until the new government’s formation in May 2025 before leaving politics entirely.

In his forthcoming book, "Verantwortung" (Responsibility), Wissing harshly critiques his former party, the Free Democratic Party (FDP), emphasizing how its ideological shift toward libertarianism has undermined its foundational role and weakened its influence. He notes, "The FDP has become an opponent of the state," which conflicts with the party's historical role in guaranteeing freedom.

Wissing reflects candidly on the Ampel coalition’s failure, attributing it largely to a lack of empathy among its members. He underscores the importance of empathy in politics: "Without empathy no success – that is the essence of my political experience." The coalition’s internal conflicts and inability to work cohesively contributed significantly to its collapse.

Born in Landau in 1970, Wissing has held several key political positions, including Minister for Economic Affairs and Vice Minister-President in Rheinland-Pfalz. His departure from the FDP was driven by a desire to avoid further internal conflict following the coalition's breakdown. Post-politics, he now runs a law firm and chairs a consulting committee.

This insider perspective illuminates the complex dynamics behind the Ampel coalition’s disintegration, spotlighting both personal and ideological factors that reshaped Germany’s political landscape in recent years.