Political System

Legislation

Bicameral system: in addition to the Bundestag, the Bundesrat (consisting of delegates of the state governments to uphold the states’ interests) participates in legislation.

State structure

Germany is a federation consisting of 16 federal states, each with its own constitution, parliament and government. The highest state authority is exercised by the federal government. Through the agency the Bundesrat, the states are represented at the federal level and participate in federal legislation.

Federal President

Christian Wulff, since 2010

Federal Chancellor

Dr. Angela Merkel (CDU), since 2005

Society

Germany has about 82 million inhabitants. It is by far the largest country in the EU in terms of population. Germany is a modern, cosmopolitan country. Its society is shaped by a plurality of life styles and truly different ethno-cultural diversity. Forms of coexistence have become more varied, and the scope individuals enjoy has become greater. Traditional gender roles have been dispensed with. Despite the social changes, the family remains the most important social reference unit and young people are very closely connected with their parents.

Foreign Policy

Germany – a partner worldwide

In the age of globalization, foreign policy is, more than ever before, the world’s domestic policy. States, societies and economic zones are all becoming networked. The end of the East-West conflict has opened up new opportunities for German foreign policy – both within Europe and worldwide. Germany has accepted the international responsibility that has evolved for the country in the wake of dramatic changes with regard to world politics, and, together with its European and transatlantic partners, is deeply committed to the causes of democracy, human rights and the dialog between cultures. The prime objective of Germany’s foreign policy is to maintain peace and safety in the world.