Climate Conference: Merz Criticized Over Remarks on Brazilians, Badum Responds

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz faced widespread criticism at the UN Climate Conference in Brazil after stating that he asked journalists accompanying him during his visit to the city of Belém who wished to remain there, and no one expressed interest, noting they were happy to return to “beautiful Germany.”

These remarks prompted Lisa Badum, a member of Germany’s Green Party, to issue repeated apologies to the Brazilian public, after government spokesperson Stefan Cornelius clarified that Merz does not intend to retract his statement.

Badum emphasized that the climate crisis requires international cooperation free from “arrogance,” calling on Merz to apologize to the residents of Belém and correct his stance, stating that Merz’s Germany is not the Germany she represents.

Merz also faced domestic criticism from the Green Party and Social Democrats, while some Brazilian officials described his comments as “arrogant and biased,” arguing that they risk Germany’s image as a responsible international partner.

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