German election explained: Who's running, what's at stake and why it matters

Polls will be open from 8 am to 6 pm, and Germans can also vote by postal ballot. Vote counting begins immediately after polls close, with exit polls providing an early picture. The final official results are expected early Monday. (Pic credit: AP)

Four candidates are vying for the chancellorship: incumbent Olaf Scholz (SPD), Friedrich Merz (CDU), Robert Habeck (Greens), and Alice Weidel (AfD). Polls show Merz's party leading, with AfD in second place, but coalition talks will be necessary. (Pic credit: AP)

At least 59.2 million Germans can vote for the Bundestag's 630 seats. A minimum of 5% of votes is required for parties to enter parliament. Between five and eight parties are expected to gain representation in the new government. (Pic credit: AP)

No single party is projected to win an outright majority, making coalition talks inevitable. Germany does not have a tradition of minority governments, so parties must negotiate agreements before forming a new administration. (Pic credit: AP)

Coalition discussions begin with exploratory talks before moving to formal negotiations. The resulting coalition agreement must be approved by the involved parties, after which the Bundestag elects the new chancellor. (Pic credit: AP)

Germany's government plays a crucial role in the EU and Nato. Its policies will influence Europe's stance on the US, Ukraine and regional stability. The election will determine Germany's role as a key military and economic force in the region. (Pic credit: AP)

The election was called early due to the collapse of Scholz's coalition, triggered by economic struggles. The new government will need to address Germany's two-year economic downturn and devise strategies to reinvigorate growth. (Pic credit: AP)

Migration is a central election issue, with parties divided on how to handle irregular migration. The incoming government will face pressure to introduce policies to manage immigration while balancing humanitarian and economic considerations. (Pic credit: AP)

If Merz wins, he aims to form a government by mid-April. Until then, Scholz's government will continue in a caretaker role. The speed of coalition negotiations will determine how soon a new government takes charge. (Pic credit: AP)