In a significant political transition, Germany's 21st Bundestag convened its first session on March 25, 2025, electing CDU politician Julia Klöckner as the new Bundestag President with 382 votes in favor, 204 against, and 31 abstentions [1][2].

Klöckner, 52, becomes only the fourth woman to hold this position, which is the second-highest office in Germany after the Federal President. In her inaugural address, she emphasized the need for civility and proper conduct in parliamentary proceedings [2].

The session began with Left Party veteran Gregor Gysi serving as President by Seniority (Alterspräsident), a role determined by longest parliamentary service rather than age. This prompted unsuccessful protests from the AfD, which has doubled its parliamentary presence and now holds 152 seats as the second-largest faction [1].

The new Bundestag faces significant challenges, including a markedly different political composition. The AfD's increased presence and more confrontational tone was evident during the session, with multiple procedural disputes arising [1][2].

Klöckner outlined several priorities in her inaugural speech, including:

Reform of the electoral law to ensure directly elected candidates receive mandatesImproving family-friendly working conditions in parliamentIncreasing women's representation, currently at only one-third of membersMaintaining civilized debate despite political differences

The session also marked the formal end of Olaf Scholz's government, though it will continue in a caretaker capacity until a new administration is formed [2][5].