Germany and integration Flashcards
What is the political system of Germany?
Federal
What are the two houses of the German Parliament
Bundestag and Bundesrat
How many states (Länder) does Germany have?
16 states
Current chancellor of Germany
Olaf Scholz
What type of government is typical in Germany?
Coalition government
What significant historical event caused more dislocation in Germany than any other European power during the 20th century?
Two world wars
What was the war guilt associated with in Germany?
Both world wars
How many different political systems has Germany experienced?
5 different political systems
How many currency destructions has Germany faced?
2 currency destructions
When did German unification occur?
1990
What type of changes did Germany experience after unification?
Huge economic, political, and psychological changes
How do historical changes impact German politics
They are reflected in the codified constitution (Grundgesetz)
What is Germany’s status within Europe?
Dominant power
What is the ‘German question’?
Whether Germany is the dominant power
What percentage of landmass does Germany occupy compared to France?
11%
How many countries does Germany share borders with?
9 other countries
What was the estimated population of Germany in 2021?
83.13 million people
What was Germany’s GDP estimate for 2023?
$4.12 trillion
What is Germany’s rank as an export country in the world?
3rd largest export country
What are the main components of Germany’s economy?
- Services (70%)
- Industry (29.1%)
- Agriculture (0.9%)
What has historically characterised Germany’s attitude towards integration?
Most enthusiastic about integration
What was Germany’ status in the EEC?
One of the original members
What is the concept of ‘social market economy’ in Germany?
A partnership between business, government, and citizens
What does ‘civilian power’ mean in the context of Germany’s military?
German troops operate defensively on German soil
What type of weapons does Germany’s constitution prohibit?
Atomic, biological, or chemical weapons
When was conscription phased out in Germany?
2011
What were the attractions for West Germany regarding European integration?
International acceptability and a sense of identity
How did European integration help protect Germany?
It provided binding power to prevent internal conflicts
Why is international trade essential for Germany?
To rebuild and prosper, Germany needs trading partners
Who were the leaders of Germany during the post cold war period?
Helmut Kohl and Gerhard Schröder
What is meant by ‘broad foreign policy continuity’ in Germany?
It refers to consistent policies over time
How does ‘voluntary self-restraint’ imply in German foreign policy?
Germany avoids aggressive military actions
What is Germany’s stance on market interdependence?
Germany moves towards liberalising trade and avoiding protectionism
What commitment does Germany have towards international agreements?
Germany values the importance of international law establishment
What type of power is Germany classified as?
Non-nuclear power
What does ‘principles multilateralism’ mean for Germany?
Germany supports cooperative international relations
What has been the trend in European integration regarding cooperation?
More cooperation in Justice and Home Affairs
What is the goal of strengthening the CFSP in Europe?
To enhance the Common Foreign and Security policy
Why is increasing the powers of the European parliament important?
It provides democratic legitimacy
What does the development of subsidiarity refer to?
Decisions should be made at the most local level possible
What is the significance of enlargement to CEECs for Germany?
It could expand the ‘zone of peace’
What has been the outcome of Germany’s original goals in the EU?
Most original goals achieved
What is a fundamental issue Germany faces regarding its role in the EU?
Declining ability to be the EU ‘paymaster’
What significant change occured at the end of the Kohl era?
Shift in leadership to the ‘1968 generation’
What does ‘enlightened self-interest’ refer to in Germany’s support for the EU?
Conditional support based on national interests
What has contributed to a renewed pride in Germany identity?
Increased self-confidence as a nation
What is the Stability and Growth Pact in relation to Germany?
It aims to maintain low inflation
How does Germany’s budgetary contribution affect other European countries?
It puts policy pressure on them
