Public image of Angela Merkel

Scholars suggest that Merkel's experiences growing up in the DDR, including concerns about surveillance by the Stasi,[8] may have influenced her diplomatic approach and ability to maintain neutrality in political matters.

Merkel, influenced by her Protestant upbringing through her father, a pastor, displayed a frugal lifestyle and a tendency to work behind the scenes in her early political career.

[16] Since Merkel stepped down as the CDU party leader, she has become more vocal on women's issues, including the gender pay gap and representation in politics.

[22] This nickname, which originated as a somewhat derogatory term from her opponents, implying a 'nagging mother' stereotype, was later adopted by her party and supporters as a mark of respect and affection.

Angela Merkel's tenure as Chancellor of Germany has been marked by various characteristics, one of which has been perceived by some as indecisiveness or a cautious approach to forming and expressing opinions.

[24] While this characterization suggests a critique of her leadership style, it also reflects the cautious consideration Merkel applied in evaluating the consequences of her actions.

The event should have been unremarkable however the dynamic changed when the Russian President invited Koni, his 8-year-old Labrador Retriever dog, to join the two.

In response, the European Union deliberated on appropriate measures to prevent further financial deterioration, with intense discussions centered around the structure of the "bailout" package.

Merkel faced criticism for her handling of the Greek bailout package, which opposed austerity measures and seemingly favored the German banking sector.

[28] In 2013, reports indicated that the US National Security Agency under President Obama had hacked and spied on European leaders, including the Chancellor herself.

[29] The event hits close to home for Merkel, growing up in East Germany during the Cold War, where spying on friends was a common fear.

[30] The event did not prevent the two leaders from working together, but it inspired proposals for EU legislation against the transfer of digital data between Europe and America.

A reported 911,000 refugees made the journey in 2015 alone, fleeing civil war, conflict, and poverty mainly from Afghanistan, Syria, and Iraq.

[33] As countries started to close their borders, Merkel committed to accepting one million refugees with her famous words “wir schaffen das” or “we can do this” even as her popularity dropped.

[34] The Chancellor faced criticism throughout the EU where a Hungarian spokesperson said, “the Germans think they’re the Americans of Europe.”[35] Time Magazine noted that Merkel's leadership during the crisis was influenced by her background both as a migrant from former East Germany and her religious upbringing, which acted as a moral compass that favored humanity over political popularity.

[36] In March 2017, Angela Merkel visited the White House for the first time during Donald Trump's presidency, a meeting that drew significant attention due to the contrasting views of the two leaders on transatlantic relations.

A notable moment occurred when reporters requested a handshake photo; Merkel appeared to extend her hand, while President Trump did not immediately respond.