German politics refers to the political system, political practices, and political institutions of Germany. It encompasses the processes by which public policy is formulated, the organization of political parties, the operation of government at the federal, state, and local levels, and the role of various stakeholders including the electorate, interest groups, and the judiciary.
Germany is a federal parliamentary republic, meaning that it has a division of powers between the federal government and the individual states (Länder) and a legislative system that operates through a parliamentary framework. The political landscape is characterized by a multi-party system, with major parties including the Christian Democratic Union (CDU), the Social Democratic Party (SPD), and the Green Party, among others.
Key features of German politics include the Basic Law, which serves as the constitution, the role of the Federal Chancellor as the head of government, and the Bundestag (the federal parliament) and Bundesrat (the federal council) as legislative bodies. Furthermore, the political culture emphasizes consensus-building, stability, and the protection of civil rights, influenced by Germany’s historical context. Overall, German politics plays a vital role in shaping not only national governance but also the country’s position within the European Union and the global arena.
The Südschleswigsche Wählerverband (SSW) secures representation in Germany's Bundestag, underscoring the importance of minority voices in politics. Founded in 1948, the SSW advocates for Danish and Frisian minorities, promoting social…