The CDU party leadership is convening in Stuttgart ahead of the party congress, where key discussions will include a social media ban for children and the re-election of Friedrich Merz as party leader. Former Chancellor Angela Merkel is expected to attend, a move interpreted by political scientist Julia Reuschenbach as a potential signal of concern over Merz's low approval ratings and dissatisfaction with his economic policies within the party, particularly among female voters who associate Merkel with a centrist course. Merkel's presence, despite her differences with Merz, is seen as a message that unity is crucial in serious times, emphasizing the need for democrats to listen to each other and debate issues constructively.