Readers comment on upset in German state elections

The following comments reflect the views of DW-WORLD.DE readers. DW-WORLD.DE reserves the right to edit for length and appropriateness of content.

Only time will tell if this was purely reactionary in light of the Japanese nuclear crisis or truly a long-term shift. -- Eric via Facebook

I firmly believe that Chancellor Angela Merkel has done and is doing a good job! It's a pity that the accident in Fukushima made Germans panic and deliver themselves into the arms of wily politicians clever enough to take advantage of the situation. The fact that the chancellor only pushed for an extension (and not a perpetuation) of the use of the German nuclear power plants was lost on Germans who naturally became extremely worried due to the unfortunate events which are still unfolding in Fukushima. The whole world (not only Europe) needs a prudent leader like Chancellor Angela Merkel! -- Irma, Philippines

Angela Merkel has a difficult job but has kept Germany safe from the financial meltdown ... well done! -- Monique, South Africa

From what I see over here in the US, things look much better in Germany than here and other parts of this world. -- Edward, US

The economy is great, unemployment is low: normally this should portend well for the chancellor, but people are reluctant to credit Frau Merkel because she has not articulated her vision for Germany. The chancellor is not leading Germany, she is reacting to German public opinion! You cannot lead a parade marching at the rear! -- Alfred, US

The "political wind" that started from North Africa and therefore affected a part of the Middle East is going to strike at EU. -- Rony, Bangladesh

I hope that every German use a sunflower in his lapel to bow to the sun. With luck one day Cuba will also have its own Green Party, and each Cuban's house will have solar panels. -- Greco, Cuba

Let Germany and the world see what the Greens can do. Now that the ball is in their court: Can they keep their promises? Sometimes change is good. This is a wake up call for German politicians: Don’t talk, act. -- Silvia, Honduras

Nuclear is not the way of the future. The Greens have a long-term view. Yes, I would and do vote for them. -- Jos, Australia

Compiled by Stuart Tiffen
Editor: Martin Kuebler