German Constitution Basics

German Constitution (Grundgesetz)

• The Grundgesetz is Germany's constitution, outlining legal and political rules.
• It establishes Germany as a democratic state, enabling citizen participation in politics through associations, initiatives, unions, and parties.
• Main political parties include SPD, CDU, Bündnis 90/Die Grünen, FDP, AfD, and Die Linke.
• Numerous smaller parties also exist.

Citizen Rights and Responsibilities

• Citizens have rights and responsibilities.
• Key responsibilities include compulsory school attendance, tax liability, and obeying the law.
• Fundamental rights include human dignity, equal rights (e.g., gender equality), equality before the law, freedom of expression, assembly, movement, and occupation choice.
• Protection of marriage and family, voting rights (secret, general, and free elections), and religious freedom are also enshrined.
• EU citizens in Germany can vote in EU and local elections.
• Minimum voting age is generally 18, but some states allow 16-year-olds to vote in local elections.
  • Voting in parliamentary and state elections requires German citizenship.

Integration and Diversity

• Integration councils/committees exist, often elected by migrant communities.
• These councils work to promote better relations between immigrants and Germans.
• Religious freedom is guaranteed, allowing individuals to choose their religion and practice it.
• A significant portion of the German population (approximately one-third) identifies as non-religious.
• Christianity (Catholic and Protestant) is the dominant religion.
  • Many Christian holidays are public holidays.
• Schools provide religious studies based on various beliefs (including Protestant, Catholic, Christian Orthodox, Jewish, and Islamic).
• Parents determine if/how their children are given religious instruction.

Social and Individual Rights

• Germany has open and accepted diverse sexual orientation.
  • Homosexuality, bisexuality, trans- and intersexuality are accepted parts of Germany.
• The LGBTQ+ movement is important and protected.
• The rainbow flag symbolises this movement.
• Same-sex marriage was legalised in October 2017, giving couples equal marriage rights.
• Adoption rights are also equal for same-sex couples (if requirements are met).
• Religious holiday exemptions for students are possible, dependent on the federal state. Consult teachers.
• Discrimination is discouraged and considered problematic.