Politics of Germany

Politics of Germany is the system of institutions, parties, elections, policies, and movements through which the country is governed and political power is contested.

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Basic Law for the Federal Republic of Germany: Germany’s constitution, adopted in 1949, establishes democratic institutions, fundamental rights, and federal government. It sets the constitutional rules and rights that structure German political life.
Mixed-member proportional representation: An electoral system combining local district representatives with party-list seats to produce proportional parliamentary representation. Germany’s Bundestag elections use this system to connect constituency contests with party strength.
Christian Democratic Union of Germany: A major German centre-right political party with a Christian democratic tradition. The CDU has repeatedly led federal governments and shaped conservative policy.
Parliamentary Council: The assembly that drafted the Basic Law for the western German states in 1948–1949. Its work created the constitutional framework for the Federal Republic.
European Union: A political and economic union of European states with shared institutions and common policies. Germany’s government helps shape EU legislation, budgets, and policy priorities.
Federalism in Germany: Germany’s constitutional system divides public authority between the federal government and its sixteen states. The Länder share lawmaking and administration with the federal government.
German federal election: The national election that chooses the members of Germany’s Bundestag. Its results determine parliamentary seat shares and the starting point for coalition talks.
Social Democratic Party of Germany: A major German centre-left political party rooted in the labor movement and social democracy. The SPD has often led or joined federal coalitions and advanced social policy.
Federal Republic of Germany: The democratic West German state founded in 1949 and continued after reunification in 1990. Its postwar institutions and political parties form the basis of present-day governance.
European Council: The EU institution where member-state leaders set broad political priorities and resolve major disputes. The German chancellor represents Germany in negotiations among EU leaders.