Green–yellow coalition

In Germany, a green–yellow coalition (German: Grün-gelbe Koalition) (also called a lime coalition^[1] or citrus coalition)^[2] is a coalition between the Alliance 90/The Greens (green party colour) and the Free Democratic Party (yellow party colour). It was first discussed before the 2021 Baden-Württemberg state election, when the possibility of a new governing coalition at the state level became apparent.^[3] It has not been considered at the federal level.

Limes at different stages of ripeness

The parties involved

Alliance 90/The Greens

Free Democratic Party

State level

In August 2019, FDP politician Michael Theurer expressed his openness to the formation of a green-yellow coalition after the 2021 state election in Baden-Württemberg.^[4] In the same year, Hans-Ulrich Rülke, chairman of the FDP parliamentary group in the state parliament, also declared that a green-yellow coalition was a realistic option.^[5] Shortly before election day, Rülke declared that if Winfried Kretschmann withdrew during the legislative period, the FDP would also vote for a successor from the Greens in order to continue a coalition. Ultimately, a possible green-yellow coalition missed the absolute majority in the Landtag of Baden-Württemberg by two seats.

Municipal level

After the 2016 local elections in Hesse [de], such an alliance was formed for the first time nationwide in the Hessian municipality of Großkrotzenburg.^[6] The Green-Yellow coalition collapsed six months before the 2021 local elections in Hesse.^[7]