The State in Germany

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.