Germany Losing Global Clout

Despite Germany's economic clout, Berlin has failed to place German officials in top jobs at the EU and in key organizations such as the IMF and ECB. The country's global influence is suffering as a result. A dearth of suitable candidates, domestic politics and Angela Merkel's lack of horse-trading skills are to blame.

"Merkel's lack of capable senior experts is beginning to adversely affect Germany's role in international bodies. While such organizations have become increasingly important in the course of globalization, Germany's ability to successfully champion its interests inside them is declining. "Germany," says former Foreign Minister Joschka Fischer, "is failing as a leading power in Europe."