What does the term federal state mean in Germany?

A federal state divides public responsibilities and power between the federal government and the federal states. The federal states are not merely branches of the federal government; they have their own government responsibilities.

What role does the Basic Law play for the state in Germany?

The Basic Law is Germany’s constitution. It protects fundamental rights, sets out the main principles of the state and determines how the highest state institutions work together.

Are municipalities a separate level of government in Germany?

Municipalities carry out many public tasks independently and are the level of government people encounter most directly in everyday life. Constitutionally, however, they belong to the federal states and are not a third level of government alongside the federal government and the states.

How can you challenge a government decision in Germany?

Depending on the decision, you may be able to raise an objection, lodge a formal appeal or take the matter to court. The notice and the rules for the particular procedure determine what applies, so significant cases should be reviewed in time.

The State in Germany

Germany is a democratic and social federal state. Its public responsibilities are divided among the federal government, federal states and municipalities. The Basic Law sets out how state power is limited, controlled and used to protect people.

Tip

In everyday life, you usually deal with the state through a particular public authority, not as one single large institution. First check whether the federal government, a federal state, rural district or municipality is responsible for your matter. Ask for clear information and keep important letters organised.

bySophie&Jan

Germany’s official name is the Federal Republic of Germany. It is a parliamentary democracy, a constitutional state, a social state and a federal state. The Basic Law is the foundation of its system of government. The state creates binding rules and takes responsibility for shared tasks. These include public safety, courts, schools, social security, transport routes and protecting the natural foundations of life, among other things. Which level of government is responsible depends on the task. The federal government handles matters that are important for all of Germany. The federal states have their own constitutions, parliaments and governments. Cities, municipalities and rural districts manage many local tasks, but are legally part of the federal states. State power is divided. Parliaments pass laws, governments and public authorities implement them, and independent courts decide disputes. This separation of powers is intended to prevent abuses of power. The Bundestag is the parliament at federal level, elected by the people. The Bundesrat participates in lawmaking and represents the federal states. The federal government leads federal policy, while the Federal President mainly has representative and constitutional duties. Germany is a constitutional state. Public authorities must comply with the law, courts review government decisions, and people affected can challenge them through the available legal remedies. No one may be treated solely at the whim of a public official. Fundamental rights protect freedom, equality and human dignity. They bind public authorities and protect people in matters such as freedom of expression, religion, assembly and personal life. Some freedoms may be limited by general laws when it is necessary to protect other people’s rights or important shared interests. The social state is intended to support people facing basic life risks and enable participation in society. At the same time, the state is funded mainly through taxes and other public charges. Its capacity is therefore limited by laws, available resources and priorities set democratically. The German state is sustained by more than public authorities and elections. People can take part in political parties, associations, citizens’ initiatives, advocacy groups and public debate. This participation offers opportunities, but also calls for respect for fundamental rights, democratic rules and differing opinions.