summary of german politics

Germany’s political system functions under a framework that was laid out in the 1949 constitutional document called the Grundgesetz (basic Law).  It is a federal, parliamentary, representative democratic republic.  This prevents the rights to resist any attempts to overthrow the constitution.  After the reunification of Germany in 1990, the Grundgesetz remained in effect though there were minor amendments.  At the head of the government is the Chancellor who has executive power.  This power is similar to the role of a Prime Minister. 

 

A legislative body is formed with the Bundestag and Bundesrat or Federal Council.  It is through this body that federal legislative power is committed.  Election of the Bundesrat is through direct elections and members represent the government made up of sixteen federal states.  The Bundesrat are also members of the state cabinets.  The state cabinet can appoint the Bundesrat who can be removed at any time.

 

The head of the German state is the President of Germany who is elected by the Bundesversammlung.  Bundesversammlung is an institution which is made up of the Bundestag and an equal number of state delegates.  The President of the Bundestag is the second highest official in the German order of precedence and is elected by the Bundestag itself.  The Bundestag is responsible for oversight of the daily sessions of the body and is appointed through direct election.  The Chancellor is the third highest official and head of the government.