German politics refers to the political system, institutions, processes, and activities that govern the Federal Republic of Germany. It encompasses the structure of government, including the federal and state levels, the roles of major political parties, and the electoral system. The political landscape in Germany is characterized by a parliamentary democracy, with a strong emphasis on coalition-building among various political parties. The two major parties are the Christian Democratic Union (CDU) and the Social Democratic Party (SPD), along with other significant parties, such as the Greens and the Free Democratic Party (FDP).
The German political system is defined by its commitment to democracy, the rule of law, and the protection of civil liberties, with a constitution known as the Grundgesetz (Basic Law) that lays out the framework for governance and the rights of citizens. Key components of German politics include the Bundestag (the federal parliament), the Bundesrat (the federal council representing the states), and the Chancellor, who is the head of government. Additionally, German politics is marked by its involvement in European and international affairs, particularly through its membership in the European Union (EU) and various international organizations. Overall, German politics reflects a complex interplay of regional interests, historical context, and modern policy challenges.