While Europe struggles with declining financial confidence,a falling euro and tough decisions surrounding Greece, many are looking to Germany's chancellor, Angela Merkel. Some predict that the Greek crisis will be difficult to contain without serious action on the part of Germany. If Greece is forced to abandon the euro, as many on the German right demand, this could disrupt solidarity on the continent. 

Critics of Chancellor Merkel say that she has put too much energy into protecting her political standing while there is a need for strong, risk-taking leadership to save European currency. Supporters of Mrs. Merkel say that she has used low-profile methods to win passage for unpopular bailouts while forcing greater fiscal responsibility from indebted nations.