The **Christian Democratic Union of Germany (CDU)** is a major centre-right political party known for its Christian democratic and conservative policies. Founded on June 26, 1945, after the fall of Nazi Germany, the CDU emerged as a unifying political force for Christians and conservatives from diverse political backgrounds such as the German Centre Party and liberal conservatives. Its first leader, Konrad Adenauer, played a crucial role in shaping the party and West Germany's post-war recovery and integration with the West. The CDU has traditionally supported a free-market economy combined with social welfare programs, European integration, and close ties with the United States[1][2][3]. Historically, the CDU dominated West German politics during the first two decades after its founding and remained a leading force throughout the late 20th century. After a setback in 1998, the party returned to power in 2005 with Angela Merkel as Chancellor, who became one of Germany’s longest-serving and most influential leaders, promoting stability and EU cohesion[3]. In the present day, the CDU is Germany’s largest party in the Bundestag, holding 208 out of 630 seats as of 2025, and forms a parliamentary faction known as the CDU/CSU or simply “the Union” with its Bavarian sister party, the Christian Social Union (CSU). Friedrich Merz has been the CDU’s federal chairman since January 2022 and has served as Chancellor since May 2025. The party continues to influence both German and European politics significantly, with members like Ursula von der Leyen holding key positions in the European Union[1][2][4]. The CDU’s organizational structure includes a youth wing, the Young Union, and the Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung foundation, supporting policy development and party activities. The party’s colors are traditionally black, with red and gold used in corporate design. The CDU remains a pivotal actor i