Germany is headed for early elections following the collapse of Chancellor Olaf Scholz's three-party coalition government. The move, largely anticipated after weeks of political gridlock, comes as the nation braces for an election campaign centered on economic recovery and its role within Europe.

What Happened?

* Scholz's coalition, made up of the SPD, Greens, and FDP, unraveled after months of disputes over economic and budgetary policies.

* The dismissal of Finance Minister Christian Lindner (FDP) in November triggered the coalition's collapse.

* Scholz requested a no-confidence vote on December 16, an unusual but constitutional step to prompt early elections.

The No-Confidence Vote

* In the Bundestag vote, 394 MPs opposed Scholz's government, exceeding the 367 votes needed for the motion to pass.

* Following protocol, President Frank-Walter Steinmeier is expected to dissolve parliament and announce the February election date.

Election Date Set: February 23

* Germans will head to the polls seven months ahead of schedule.

* Campaigns have already begun, with parties focusing on key economic, social, and foreign policy issues.

* Friedrich Merz, leader of the CDU, is the frontrunner for chancellor, as the CDU leads in early polls.

Key Campaign Issues

* Economy: Tackling inflation, energy crises, and industrial competitiveness.

* Foreign Policy: Continued support for Ukraine, managing relations with Russia, and Germany's leadership in the EU.

* Immigration: Strengthening border controls and revising asylum policies.

* Social Policies: Raising the minimum wage and expanding welfare programs.

* Defense: Increasing investments in military and national security.

The Political Landscape

* Polls place the CDU ahead, followed by the AfD, SPD, and Greens.

* Smaller parties, including the FDP and The Left (Linke), may struggle to meet the 5% threshold for parliamentary representation.

* Despite setbacks, the SPD has reaffirmed Scholz as its candidate for chancellor.

* A significant majority of parties have ruled out any collaboration with the far-right AfD.

What's Next?

* Coalition-building is expected to take weeks post-election, with potential outcomes including a Grand Coalition (CDU-SPD) or a three-party alliance involving the Greens or smaller parties.

* The February elections will shape Germany's domestic policy agenda and its leadership role in Europe.

Germany faces a critical moment, and the coming weeks will set the stage for a pivotal election in its modern history.