German Politics

German Politics refers to the political system, processes, and institutions of the Federal Republic of Germany. It encompasses the governance structure, political parties, electoral systems, policy-making mechanisms, and the role of various government branches, including the executive, legislative, and judiciary. The political landscape is characterized by a federal system where power is divided between the national government and 16 federal states (Länder).

Key political parties in Germany include the Christian Democratic Union (CDU), the Social Democratic Party (SPD), the Greens, the Free Democratic Party (FDP), and more recently, the Alternative for Germany (AfD) and The Left (Die Linke). The political system is marked by a strong emphasis on coalition-building, as no single party usually gains an outright majority in the Bundestag, Germany’s federal parliament.

Germany’s political culture is influenced by its history, particularly the aftermath of World War II and the reunification of East and West Germany in 1990. The country prioritizes democratic values, social market economy principles, and adherence to the rule of law. Additionally, Germany plays a significant role in European and international politics, being a leading member of the European Union and various international organizations.