Angela Merkel's decision to step down could spark a new era for German politics.

The German chancellor will give up the leadership of her CDU party later this year, following a string of election setbacks.

She will also step down as leader at the next election, which is due to take place in 2021.

Europe correspondent Catherine Field told Mike Hosking she is the central figure in German politics, and the country will never be the same without her.

"Today we have seen the start of profound changes and implications for Germany."

LISTEN ABOVE AS CATHERINE FIELD SPEAKS TO MIKE HOSKING