Germany is a democratic and social federal republic. The Basic Law (Grundgesetz) is the most important foundation of the state and protects, among other things, human dignity, freedom, equality, and democratic participation. Germany is a federal state. The federal government decides on matters shared across the country, while the 16 federal states (Bundesländer) have their own parliaments and governments and, for example, shape important parts of education, policing, and public administration. Cities, municipalities, and districts are also politically important. They take care of many everyday responsibilities, such as schools, roads, public facilities, development, and local services. The German federal parliament (Deutscher Bundestag) is elected by eligible voters. It passes laws, oversees the federal government, and elects the Federal Chancellor (Bundeskanzlerin oder Bundeskanzler). The federal government directs federal policy. It consists of the Federal Chancellor and the federal ministers, who are each responsible for specific areas of work. The Federal Council (Bundesrat) represents the governments of the federal states. It participates in legislation, especially when decisions affect the states' responsibilities or finances. The head of state is the Federal President (Bundespräsidentin oder Bundespräsident). The office represents Germany domestically and internationally, performs mainly unifying and formal duties, and is not part of the day-to-day leadership of the government. Political decisions usually develop in several steps. A proposal is considered, examined by experts and political groups, debated in parliament, and finally adopted or rejected; depending on the subject, the Federal Council also takes part. Courts are independent and examine disputes according to the law. The Federal Constitutional Court (Bundesverfassungsgericht) is especially responsible for ensuring that state action and laws are compatible with the Basic Law. Democracy provides peaceful ways to bring about change, but it does not guarantee that every person will achieve what they want. Compromises take time, majorities can change, and fundamental rights and the rule of law limit political power.
Politics in Germany
Politics in Germany determines how common rules are adopted, public responsibilities are carried out, and different interests are balanced. Germany is a federal parliamentary democracy in which the federal government, federal states, and municipalities take on different responsibilities. Citizens participate above all through elections, political parties, initiatives, and public debate.
Tip
Politics affects you in Germany not only through federal parliamentary elections, but also through decisions made by your municipality and your federal state. First check which level of government is responsible for your concern, and then formulate a clear goal. You can gather information, contact representatives, and get involved with others.