The Electoral System in Germany

Salma Hassan Elsayed Elsayed 5200315

Kamel Hamdy Kamel Mohamed 5210562
Kamel Mostafa Kamel Mohamed 5210469

“Arabic section”
Major: political science
Minor: public administration

1
Table of contents:

names tasks

 Literature review
Salma Hassan  Methodology
 1- main features of German voting system

 2- Differences between federal and state

elections.
Kamel Hamdy  4- Major political parties in Germany.

 Introduction (historical background -

Research questions)
Kamel Mostafa  3- Political consequences of mixed
electoral system.
 Conclusion (results).

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Introduction:
Choosing an electoral system is one of the most important decisions for any democratic
system. In most cases, choosing a specific electoral system has enormous consequences on the
future of political life in the country in question, as the chosen electoral system tends to be
stable. The process of choosing the electoral system is primarily a political issue, and political
considerations are often the primary factor in choosing the electoral system. Electoral systems
also have many long-term consequences on political life, it is greatly influenced by the political
context.1

If we discuss the electoral system of the State of Germany, we will find that it is a mixed
system that combines the majority system and the proportional representation system, and this
system has historical roots linked to the political context and experience witnessed by the State
of Germany. After defeat in World War I, Germany established the Weimar Republic in 1919
and established a proportional representation electoral system after World War I, The aim of this
arrangement was to ensure fair representation of political parties according to their share of the
vote, the current electoral system was influenced by the experiences of the Weimar Republic,
However, the proportional representation system was also responsible for the problems of the
Weimar Republic, which included Political instability and Partisan division in the Nazi era which
means that the negatives of proportional representation during the era of the Weimar Republic
were a factor in thinking about the majority system as an option for a new electoral system, in
2
addition to the support of some parties for this system.

After World War II, because of the desire of the Soviet and Western military governments
controlling Germany to include all societal formations in political life, and because of the
negatives of the majority system during the era of the empire, a system of proportional
representation was thought about again. Local experiences at the state level and their preferences
were decisive and important in shaping the German electoral system. West Germany introduced

1
Norris, Pippa. “Choosing Electoral Systems: Proportional, Majoritarian and Mixed Systems.” International Political
Science Review / Revue Internationale de Science Politique 18, no. 3 (1997): 297–312.
http://www.jstor.org/stable/1601345.
2
Florian Grotz, Wolfgang Schroeder, The Political System of Germany, Palgrave Macmillan, 2023, pp 141-177.
https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-031-32480-2.

3
a new electoral system in 1949, marking the establishment of the Federal Republic of Germany
Known as the mixed proportional system (MMP), it combines elements of single-member
district (SMD) and party-list proportional representation (PR).3

In 1953, it was Introducing some amendments which approved The five percent threshold is
used as a threshold for political parties to gain representation in the Bundestag at the invitation of
some major parties that were confident in overcoming this barrier, a permanent law was issued in
1956 regulating elections in Germany. It was greatly influenced by strategic considerations,
bargaining between parties, and the control of Western military governments. The primary
delegation clause was implemented in 1985, ensuring that a party that gains at least three direct
seats is entitled to proportional representation, even if it falls below the five percent barrier. This
provision ensures the representation of parties with significant regional support. Based on the
above, in this study we will attempt to identify the nature of the electoral system in Germany and
answer the following research questions:

 What are the main features of the German electoral system?

 How does the federal electoral system differ from the state electoral system?
 What are the political consequences of the German electoral system?
 How did the electoral system affect the party system?
 What are the most important parties in Germany?

Literature Review:

A literature review on the electoral system in Germany reveals a wide range of research
studies examining various aspects of the system. Scholars have explored topics such as the
historical evolution of the German electoral system, the impact of electoral reforms, the
representation of political parties and minorities in Germany, and voter behavior.
Studies examining the historical development of the German electoral system have focused on
the transition from the proportional representation system of the Weimar Republic to the current
mixed-member proportional (MMP) system. 4

3
Thomas Zittel, Electoral Systems in Context: Germany, Oxford Handbooks Online, 2017, pp 8-12.
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/319059066.
4
Administration of German Bundestage, research section, Election in the Weimar Republic, 2006, p.1-3

4
 These studies investigate the context surrounding the establishment of the Federal
Republic of Germany after World War II and the subsequent reforms that have shaped the
system. They highlight the challenges faced by the Weimar Republic, such as political
fragmentation and instability, which led to the adoption of MMP in 1949. 5
Researchers have also analyzed subsequent reforms, such as the introduction of the five
percent hurdle in 1953, and their impact on the party landscape and political representation.
Overall, these studies provide a comprehensive understanding of the evolution of the German
electoral system and its implications for political representation. 6
Furthermore, studies have examined the representation of political parties within the
German electoral system provide insights into party dynamics, competition, and seat allocation.
The studies examine how electoral rules and mechanisms shape party representation and
legislative body composition. They also explore the effects of the system on party competition,
platform formulation, and party strategies. 7
Studies also examine the distribution of seats among political parties and its implications
for representation. They also investigate how electoral rules, such as the five percent hurdle,
affect smaller parties' ability to secure representation in the legislature. The research also
explores strategies used by these parties to overcome the threshold and gain parliamentary seats. 8
In addition, several studies have explored the impact of the electoral system on the representation
of minorities and other underrepresented groups in Germany They investigate how electoral rules
and mechanisms either support or hinder the political participation and representation of
marginalized groups.9

5
Thomas Zittel, opcit, p.9-13
6
Ulrich Siebere, Behavioral consequences of mixed electoral systems: Deviating voting behavior of district and list
MPs in the German Bundestag, electoral studies, vol.29, 2010, p.488- 489
7
Susan Scarrow, multi-speed parties and representation: the evolution of party affiliation in Germany, German
politics, vol.28, 2019
Available at: https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/pdf/10.1080/09644008.2018.1496239
8
Gerd Mielke, political parties membership, mobilization and power management the example of the federal
republic of Germany, shanghai coordination office for international cooperation, vol.7, 2011
Available at: https://library.fes.de/pdf-files/bueros/china/11404.pdf
9
Barbara Donovan, minority representation in Germany, German politics, vol.4, 2007
Available at: https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/pdf/10.1080/09644000701652482

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 These studies explore the representation of women, ethnic minorities, and other
underrepresented communities, analyzing factors such as the number of candidates, party
policies, and the presence of minority-focused parties.10
They also assess the accessibility of the electoral process and the responsiveness of
political parties to the concerns of these groups. The research contributes to discussions on
electoral reform, social justice, and democratic inclusion in Germany. 11

Methodology:
The research will adopt a descriptive qualitative case study approach. This methodology
is chosen because it allows for an in-depth exploration of complex phenomena within their
contexts, which is ideal for understanding the intricacies and implications of Germany's electoral
systems. The case study will focus on historical and contemporary aspects of the electoral
mechanisms, examining how they have evolved and their impact on political outcomes in
Germany. 12
The study will gather data from various sources to understand the German electoral
system. Primary sources include Legal documents, such as the German Basic Law and federal
election laws, establish the principles and structures of the German electoral system, serving as a
legal framework for elections. Election data, provided by the Federal Returning Officer, includes
official results that offer insights into voter turnout, party votes, and seat allocation. This data
enables analysis of election outcomes, party representation, and voter participation and
secondary sources which include Academic Journals, Books and Scholarly articles that analyze
the German electoral system, its design, and its effect on the political landscape. also, this study
will use Articles from reputable news organizations that provide commentary and in-depth
analyses on election outcomes and electoral reforms.

10
Katerina Prochazkova, Electoral Systems and the Representation of Minorities and Specific Segments of Society,
( Master, Palacky university, faculty of science department of development studies, 2016), p. 18-27
Available at: https://theses.cz/id/x5d49d/DP_PROCHAZKOVA_Katerina_thesis_2016.pdf
11
Rosalyn Dressman, women 's underrepresentation in German politics, journal of political science, vol.12, 2022
Available at: https://www.scirp.org/journal/paperinformation?paperid=116988
12
Biba Rebolj, the case study as a type of qualitative research, journal of contemporary educational studies, 2013,
p.28- 43
Available at:
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/265682891_The_case_study_as_a_type_of_qualitative_research

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The main features of the German voting system:
The main features of the German voting system include a mixed-member proportional
(MMP) system, which combines elements of both single-member district (SMD) and party list
proportional representation (PR) systems, each voter has two votes: the first for an individual
constituency candidate, and the second for a party-list in a particular state.13
The total number of seats allocated to a party is determined by the proportion of second votes
received for that party's list of candidates. However, the number of seats won directly by
constituency MPs is subtracted from the party's total seats to maintain proportional
representation.
The electoral process involves two steps. First, one member of the Bundestag is elected in each
of the 299 constituencies through relative majority voting, where the candidate with the most
constituency votes wins. These constituency seats are then counted towards the total number of
seats won by a party with votes for its state list. This ensures that the overall composition of the
Bundestag reflects the principles of proportionality.14
The parties are responsible for presenting candidates for the constituencies, and the
boundaries of these constituencies are redrawn for each election based on recommendations by
the Constituency Boundaries Commission. To enter the Bundestag, parties must receive at least
5% of the second votes. Once the total number of seats is determined, they are allocated to
parties based on the proportion of second votes received. The parties then assign these seats
using their state lists.15
The remaining seats are assigned in the order they appear on the list. Candidates who
have won a constituency seat and are also on the party list are skipped over when seats are
allocated using the party’s list only parties may submit state lists of candidates. Members of the
German Bundestag are elected in general, direct, free, equal, and secret elections. 16

13
The voting system, federal ministry of interior and community,
Available at: https://www.bmi.bund.de/EN/topics/constitution/electoral-law/voting-system/voting-system-node.html
14
Thomas Zittle, Previous reference, p. 1-3
15
Lauren Chadwick, how does the German election system work, euro news, 2021
https://www.euronews.com/2021/09/21/how-does-the-german-elect ion-system-work
16
Lukas Haffert, how German voters navigate the trilemma of mixed-member proportionality, max planck institute
for research, 2023, p.5-27
https://www.coll.mpg.de/330984/2023_07online.pdf

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The German voting system encourages the formation of political parties and coalition
governments, with parties playing a crucial role in shaping the political landscape. Overhang and
compensation seats are created when a party wins more constituency seats than its proportional
representation share, while direct candidates are nominated by political parties. Voters have the
flexibility to split their votes between different parties or candidates, allowing for individual
choice and representation.17

These features contribute to the proportional representation of political parties in the

German Bundestag, ensuring a multi-party system and a balance between direct representation
and overall proportionality. The system aims to provide a diverse range of voices and promote
political stability through coalition governance.

The differences between the federal elections and state elections :

Germany's electoral landscape features two critical tiers: federal and state elections, each
with unique systems and implications for governance. This brief overview explores the distinct
roles and operational frameworks that differentiate these two election type, Then we will present
the differences between them.

 The Federal Electoral System in Germany:

The Federal Electoral System in Germany combines elements of First-Past-The-Post

(FPTP) and Proportional Representation (PR) to select members of the Bundestag every four
years. Voters have two votes: one for a direct candidate in single-member constituencies, and
another for a party list. The system aims to balance direct representation and proportional
representation, ensuring fair political representation and a diverse parliament. There is also a 5%
threshold clause to prevent fragmentation in the Bundestag. Overall, the system is celebrated for
its complexity and fairness, serving as a model for electoral systems worldwide. 18

17
rules of procedure of the German Bundestag and rules of procedure of the mediation committee, German
Bundestage, 2022, p.11-22
https://www.btg-bestellservice.de/pdf/80060000.pdf
18
FEDERAL REPUBLIC OF GERMANY "RE-RUN OF ELECTIONS TO THE BERLIN HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES AND
DISTRICT ASSEMBLIES 12 February 2023" Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights, 9-12 January
2023,4-5. https://www.osce.org/files/f/documents/2/a/536410.pdf

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  The State Electoral System in Germany:

State elections in Germany are crucial for shaping governance in the 16 state parliaments,
which have autonomy over regional matters. Each state has unique electoral laws, with some
using pure proportional representation (PR), others majoritarian elements, and some mixed-
member systems. These systems prevent legislative fragmentation and promote stable
governance by setting thresholds for party representation. This adaptability enhances state
governments' responsiveness to constituents' needs, reflecting Germany's commitment to
democratic integrity. Overall, Germany's state electoral systems serve as a model of federalism
and decentralization.19 But in Bremen the situation is slightly different than in the rest of the
states. Elections are held to elect members of the Bremen Parliament (Bürgerschaft) using a form
of proportional representation. Bremen is a city-state consisting of the cities of Bremen and
Bremerhaven. Bremen's parliament has 83 seats, and elections are held every four years. The
voting age is 16 years. Bremen's electoral system combines elements of a proportional
representation system with a 5% threshold for parties to enter parliament, ensuring a diverse
representation of political parties. 20

In Germany, the electoral systems at the federal and state levels are designed to meet the
diverse needs of the nation and its regions. At the federal level, the mixed-member proportional
representation system provides voters with two votes: one for direct candidates through a first-
past-the-post system and another for party lists, allocated proportionally to ensure a balanced
representation in the Bundestag. This system is aimed at achieving fairness by blending directly
elected representatives with those selected based on party preference. In contrast, the 16 states
have the autonomy to design their electoral systems, which may vary from mixed-member
systems to purely proportional or majoritarian forms. This flexibility allows state electoral
systems to adapt to local demographic and political landscapes, catering specifically to regional

19
Gaines, B. J., & Crombez, C, Another Look at Connections Across German Elections. Journal of Theoretical
Politics, 16(3),2004, 291-318. https://doi.org/10.1177/0951629804043204
20
Nagel, Klaus-Jürgen. “Elections in Bremen, Germany’s Smallest Land: Test Laboratory for Germany, or City State
Particularism?” Regional & Federal Studies 19, no. 3 (2009): 416–461.
https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/pdf/10.1080/13597560902957534

9
preferences and needs. Briefly, the main difference is that federal elections use a single, diverse
system, while state election systems vary according to each state's preferences. 21

It should also be noted that one of the basic and prominent differences between federal
elections and state-level elections in Germany is the extent of their impact on national politics. In
federal elections, the final result of these elections is very important, as it determines the
composition of the federal government and its political program, and this greatly affects the
conduct of politics in the country and the national and international policies that Germany
follows.22 As for elections at the state level, their impact is much less, as they focus more on
local issues and affairs in each state, and it is usually the states with broad sovereignty that
witness a greater impact of the results of these elections.

The scope and impact of elections at these two levels also differ significantly, reflecting
the decentralized structure of German governance. Federal elections primarily determine the
composition of the Bundestag, which holds considerable legislative power over areas such as
foreign affairs, defense, and economic policies that are not reserved for the states. This central
body shapes national and international policies. Meanwhile, state elections influence the
parliaments of individual states, which have substantial authority over local matters like
education, law enforcement, and cultural affairs. These state governments can craft policies
tailored to regional characteristics and needs, directly impacting the daily life and local
infrastructure of their constituents.23

Adaptability and innovation in Germany's political landscape vary between the federal
and state levels. The federal system's requirement for broader consensus can sometimes slow
down policy innovation, as new ideas must be palatable to a wide range of political viewpoints,
leading to more gradual policy implementation. In contrast, the diverse electoral systems at the
state level can encourage experimentation and innovation in governance. States can act as
"laboratories of democracy," testing new policies on a smaller scale before potential nationwide
adoption, leading to significant advancements in public policy. The age set for federal and state

21
Werner J. Patzelt ,The Constituency Roles of MPs at the Federal and Länder Levels in Germany,Regional &
Federal Studies, 17(1),2007,47-57 https://doi.org/10.1080/13597560701189610
22
German Federal Elections, bertelsman foundation, 6.
https://assets.ctfassets.net/9vgcz0fppkl3/73OR1e6CP7yxslWMvBPoAL/3eeb64201c88a3523723e8710e3fe431/ger
man_election_10web_FINAL.pdf
23
Werner J. Patzelt ,opcit,58-60.

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elections is 18, but in Bremen the situation is different from the rest of the states and for federal
elections, the age is 16 years.24

Political consequences of the mixed electoral system in Germany: 25

The German electoral system had a significant impact on the party system, as we
explained previously, as we find that the party system in Germany is a system multi-party it is
dominated by two parties, they are: the Christian Democratic Party (CUD) and the Social
Democratic Party (SPD). This is the result of following the majority system, but at the same time
using the proportional representation system, which allows for the emergence of other small
parties and enables them to reach some seats in Parliament, as the effect road block the 5%
required to exceed the ability of small parties to continue competing He played a role in
controlling the increase in the number of political parties. 26

And the result when what we mentioned previously highlights the role of the German
electoral system in converging the percentage of parliamentary seats obtained by the first and
second parties to some extent. Therefore, the first party needs to ally with one of the small
parties to be able to form the majority that forms the government this affects the emergence of a
strong opposition led by the second party in coalition with the rest of the small parties that were
not allied with the first party that forms the government., where the mixed system forces parties
to form government coalitions, with no party rarely winning an outright majority in parliament.
This means that governments are often composed of coalitions between several parties, requiring
negotiation and consensus between the different parties, and this is a double effect this may lead
to stabilization of the political process or be complicated by the length of the negotiations.

A mixed system enhances parliament's representativeness, as voters' votes can express

their preferences more accurately, and so legislation and government decisions reflect a wider

24
Nagel, Klaus-Jürgen,opcit,61-66.
25
Klingemann, Webels, Bernhard, Political consequences of Germany's mixed-member system: Personalization at
the grass-roots?, WZB Discussion Paper, No. FS III 99-205, WZB Berlin Social Science Center, 1999, pp 2-11.
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/235320204_Political_Consequences_of_Germany's_Mixed-
Member_System_Personalization_at_the_Grass-Roots.
26
Capoccia, G'The Political Consequences of Electoral Laws: The German System at Fifty, West European
Politics, (3) 25, 2002, pp 171-202, http://dx.doi.org/10.1080/713601619.

11
range of political views. Which leads to greater representation of minorities and marginalized
groups.

The mixed system encourages transparency and balance in decision-making, as

consensus between different parties requires providing clear explanations of their policies and
decisions, and this enhances their accountability to voters. It also acts as a barrier to issuing hasty
decisions due to the deliberation process that takes place between parties and members of
Parliament, as well. The mixed system in Germany is considered a means of promoting effective
governance, as it weakens the tendency of parties to make short-term and potentially ill-informed
decisions, and thus encourages the formulation of policies that reflect the long-term needs of
society.

A mixed system encourages greater citizen political participation, as voters can feel that
their votes carry weight and can influence government formation and political decision-making.
The mixed system also attracts supporters of the majority and proportional representation
systems. 27

An important consequence of the German electoral system is the emergence of

personalization of politics, which focuses on the influence of prominent politicians, especially
chancellors, on the success or failure of parties, in which elections become a battle between
candidates for chancellor, which some consider to strengthen personal relationships between
candidates and voters. The large size of the parliament and the multiplicity of parties with
different goals and interests may also affect legislative efficiency, resulting in increased conflict
over legislation that limits the speed and responsiveness of government processes.

The major political parties in Germany:

Germany's dynamic and diverse political landscape, driven by a multi-party system that
includes several major political parties. These parties play pivotal roles in shaping the country's
governance and policies, reflecting a wide range of ideologies and representing various
population segments. Understanding the key players in German politics is essential for

27
Ulrich Sieberer, opcit, pp 484–496.

12
comprehending the country's democratic process and policy-making. Therefore, we will outline
the most important parties to provide insight into German politics.

 Christian Democratic Union (CDU):

The Christian Democratic Union (CDU), founded in 1945, is a center-right political party
in Germany that plays a pivotal role in its political system, particularly by promoting
conservative and Christian-democratic ideals. Historically significant, the CDU has been
instrumental in shaping post-war Germany with leaders like Konrad Adenauer and Angela
Merkel emphasizing strong European integration and social market economy principles. Under
Adenauer, the CDU laid the foundations for Germany's recovery and growth post-World War II,
28
fostering Western alignment and European unity, which remain central themes in its policies.
Angela Merkel’s era marked a notable shift towards centrist policies, reflecting in her approach
to the Eurozone crisis and her decisions on phasing out nuclear energy in favor of renewable
sources post the Fukushima disaster29. The CDU’s commitment to a free market economy
combined with a robust social welfare system illustrates its pragmatic governance approach that
has adapted over the decades to address emerging economic and social challenges effectively. 30
Recent analyses suggest that Merkel’s legacy of steering the CDU through crises while
maintaining high standards of welfare has set a new benchmark for her successors in the party.

 The Social Democrats (SPD):

Founded in 1863, Following the merger of two German socialist movements, the first
influenced by the thought of Ferdinand Lassalle, and the second by the thought of Karl Marx, the
Social Democratic Party of Germany (SPD) is Germany’s oldest political party and one of its
major contemporary political forces, traditionally positioned on the center-left of the political
spectrum. The SPD has historically championed workers' rights, social justice, and welfare state
policies, promoting initiatives aimed at improving labor conditions, expanding public healthcare,
and ensuring social security. Over the decades, the SPD has played a critical role in shaping

28
Mitchell, Maria. ―Materialism and Secularism: CDU Politicians and National Socialism, 1945- 1949.‖ The
Journal of Modern History 67, no. 2 (1995): 278–308. http://www.jstor.org/stable/2125060.
29
Gunlicks, Arthur B. The Länder and German Federalism. Manchester University Press, 2003. 267-270
http://www.jstor.org/stable/j.ctt155j6k3.
30
Williams, L. K., Stegmaier, M., & Debus, M. Relaxing the Constant Economic Vote Restriction: Economic
evaluations and party support in Germany. Party Politics, 23(3), (2017) ,287-292.
https://doi.org/10.1177/1354068815593458

13
Germany's social policy landscape through its advocacy for progressive social reforms and its
commitment to democratic socialism. 31

Throughout its history, the SPD has seen significant leadership figures such as Willy
Brandt, who was known for his Ostpolitik policy that aimed at improving relations with East
Germany, and Gerhard Schröder, who implemented the controversial "Agenda 2010" reforms
that modernized social welfare but were seen by many as a departure from traditional socialist
principles. 32 In recent years, the SPD has struggled with diminishing support as it seeks to
redefine its identity and approach in a rapidly changing political climate, grappling with issues
such as economic inequality, environmental sustainability, and the challenges of globalization.
The SPD’s influence in German politics is marked not only by its policy achievements but also
by its ability to adapt to new social and economic challenges while trying to stay true to its roots
in workers’ rights and social equity33.

 Free Democratic Party (FDP):

Founded in 1948, the Free Democratic Party (FDP) is a liberal political party in Germany
known for its advocacy of individual rights, economic liberalism, and pro-business policies. The
FDP positions itself in the center to center-right on the political spectrum and has historically
played the role of kingmaker in German politics due to its pivotal position in coalition
governments. The party champion’s policies such as tax cuts, deregulation of the economy, and
enhancements to private enterprise and individual freedom. Throughout its history, the FDP has
been a staunch proponent of European integration and an advocate for civil liberties and social
progressivism, although it maintains a more conservative stance on economic issues compared to
other liberal parties in Europe. The FDP's influence peaked during the Cold War but saw a
resurgence in recent years as it capitalized on voter concerns over economic performance and
immigration issues. The party's commitment to free-market principles and a libertarian approach

31
Besier, Gerhard. ―The History of Party Development in Germany 1848 – the Present. From Ideological
Communities to Post-Modern Associations.‖ Kirchliche Zeitgeschichte 23, no. 2 (2010):528-533.
http://www.jstor.org/stable/43752027.
32
FOCUS GERMANY ―The Social Democratic Perspective‖ ,FRIEDRICH EPERT STIFTUNG, November
2005,1-8. https://library.fes.de/pdf-files/bueros/london/03681.pdf
33
Pautz, H.Germany’s Social Democrats in Search of a New Party Programme. Politics, 29(2),2009, 121-129.
https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1467-9256.2009.01347.x

14
to social policies continues to attract a significant portion of the German electorate, particularly
among business owners and the educated middle class. 34

Throughout the Cold War and into the present, the FDP has influenced German policies
significantly, seeing a resurgence by addressing contemporary concerns over economic
performance and immigration. This influence is rooted in its foundational ideologies developed
by early party leaders who emphasized a free-market economy paired with progressive social
policies. The party's historical figures, such as Theodor Hues and Hans-Dietrich Genscher, have
left lasting impacts on both national and international policy, particularly in areas like foreign
diplomacy and Germany’s economic landscape. 35

 The Greens (Bündnis 90/Die Grünen):

Founded in 1980, and considered a left-wing party.The Greens, or Bündnis 90/Die

Grünen, represent a critical force in German politics with their strong advocacy for
environmental issues, progressive social policies, and human rights. Emerging from grassroots
environmental movements, anti-nuclear protests, and the peace movement 36, The Greens have
evolved significantly from a protest party to a mainstay in German parliaments, often influencing
policy on ecology, sustainability, and social equality. Their commitment to ecological issues is
intertwined with a broader socio-political agenda that includes promoting gender equality, LGBT
rights, and integration policies, reflecting their principle of social justice. As Germany faces
37
challenges like climate change and energy transition, The Greens have gained substantial
electoral support, advocating for ambitious carbon reduction targets and a sustainable economic
model that prioritizes renewable energy over fossil fuels. The party’s recent surge in popularity
underscores its pivotal role in shaping Germany’s environmental policy and its potential to
influence future governance coalitions at both federal and state levels. 38

34
Williams, L. K., Stegmaier, M., & Debus, Opcit,p.287-288.
35
Constanze Ketterer, GERMAN LIBERALISM AND FOREIGN POLICY:THE FDP'S OSTPOLITIK UNDER
HANS-DIETRICH GENSCHER,1974-1990,( the Ph.D. Degree, University of London, London School of
Economics,1995)p.p10-11. https://etheses.lse.ac.uk/1375/1/U074610.pdf
36
Brunstetter, D., & Brunstetter, S. Shades of Green: Engaged Pacifism, the Just War Tradition, and the German
Greens1. International Relations, 25(1),2011,68 https://doi.org/10.1177/0047117810397008
37
Milder, Stephen, and Konrad H. Jarausch. ―Introduction: Renewing Democracy: The Rise of Green Politics in
West Germany.‖ German Politics & Society 33, no. 4 (117) (2015): 3–24. http://www.jstor.org/stable/43917548.
38
Maillard, Sébastien, and Alice Schmidhuber. "What Are the Ambitions of the German Green Party?." Jacques
Delors Institute, September 2021,p.p 2-9.

15
 Among the key figures who have shaped the party's direction are Petra Kelly, one of the
founders, known for her vehement anti-war stance and advocacy for non-violence and
environmental issues39, and Joschka Fischer, who served as Germany's Foreign Minister and
Vice Chancellor from 1998 to 2005, and was instrumental in pushing for political recognition of
Green issues in mainstream politics. Under their leadership and vision, The Greens have
championed a variety of causes, significantly impacting German policies on the environment,
immigration, education, and foreign affairs. 40 Their foundational ideologies and the pioneering
ideas of these founders have profoundly influenced their governance approach, reflecting a
broader socio-political agenda aimed at integrating ecological sustainability with economic and
social stability.

 The Left )Die Linke( :

Founded in 2007 through the merger of the Party of Democratic Socialism (PDS) and the
Electoral Alternative for Labor and Social Justice (WASG), Die Linke (The Left) stands as a
major political force on Germany's far-left spectrum, advocating for socialist principles aimed at
combating social injustice and reducing inequality. The party's platform includes promoting
extensive welfare programs, the nationalization of crucial industries, and implementing higher
taxes on the wealthy to redistribute wealth more fairly. Die Linke is staunchly anti-militaristic,
advocating for the withdrawal of German forces from international missions and is a vigorous
supporter of workers' rights, including advocating for higher minimum wages and better working
conditions. 41

Die Linke also focuses heavily on anti-fascism and anti-racism, striving to be a voice for
marginalized communities within Germany, and Opposes Germany’s membership in NATO.
Throughout its history, the party has significantly influenced social policy discussions in the
Bundestag, especially concerning economic disparity and welfare issues. Key figures in the party
include Gregor Gysi, a charismatic leader known for his eloquent speeches and pivotal role in the

https://institutdelors.eu/wpcontent/uploads/dlm_uploads/2021/08/PB_210908_What-are-the-ambitions-of-the-
German-Green-party_Maillard_EN.pdf
39
Richter, Saskia. ―Petra Kelly, International Green Leader: On Biography and the Peace Movement as Resources
of Power in West German Politics, 1979-1983.‖ German Politics & Society 33, no. 4 (117) (2015): 85–92.
http://www.jstor.org/stable/43917553
40
Brunstetter, D., & Brunstetter,s, Opcit,16-37.
41
Voigt, Sebastian. “Antisemitic Anti-Zionism Within the German Left—Die Linke.” In Global Antisemitism: A Crisis
of Modernity, edited by Charles Asher Small,2013, 335-336. http://www.jstor.org/stable/10.1163/j.ctv2gjx0kr.34.

16
party's formation42, and Sahra Wagenknecht, a prominent advocate for economic reform and
critic of capitalism's excesses. These figures, along with their policies, help shape Die Linke's
image as a relentless proponent of progressive change in Europe, aligning with other left-wing
groups to push a socialist agenda across the continent. This unified stance makes Die Linke a
critical player in Germany's political landscape, constantly challenging the status quo and
promoting a vision of a more equitable society.

 Alternative for Germany (AFD) :

The Alternative for Germany (AFD), founded in 2013, is a right-wing populist and
nationalist party, quickly established itself as a significant force in German politics by
advocating for nationalist, conservative, and Eurosceptic viewpoints. Initially focused on
opposing the Eurozone's bailouts, the AFD has since shifted to a broader right-wing populist
agenda, emphasizing strong anti-immigration policies, skepticism towards the EU, and a revival
of traditional social values. Among the prominent figures in the party, Alexander Gauland and
Alice Weidel have been particularly influential, with Gauland noted for his sharp critiques of
immigration policy and Weidel for her focus on economic reforms and criticism of the EU. Their
leadership has helped shape the AFD's strategic direction and solidified its position as a major
political force. The party's rise has been marked by its appeal to voter concerns over
immigration, national identity, and disillusionment with traditional parties' handling of economic
and social issues. In recent elections, the AFD has made significant inroads into both regional
and national parliaments, reflecting growing public discontent with the political status quo. The
party's controversial positions, particularly regarding Islam, multiculturalism, and climate
change, have sparked intense debate and placed it at the center of Germany's political
discourse.The AfD's influence is particularly noticeable in how it has pushed the broader
German political spectrum to address topics around national sovereignty and identity more
rigorously. 43

42
Gunlicks, Arthur B, Opcit,p,313
43
Grimm, R, The rise of the German Eurosceptic party Alternative für Deutschland, between ordoliberal critique
and popular anxiety. International Political Science Review, 36(3), 2015, p.p 265-273.
https://doi.org/10.1177/0192512115575384

17
Conclusion:
In conclusion, we reviewed the nature of the electoral system in Germany, which
combines majoritarianism and proportional representation, its historical roots, the features that
characterize this system, and its political repercussions and effects. We highlighted the
differences between federal and state elections, and explained the most important parties in
Germany.

Accordingly, we reached a set of results: the electoral system in Germany is a successful

model in achieving a balance between individual representations in electoral districts and
achieving proportional representation for parties within a single electoral framework. One
advantage of this system is the availability of different types of representatives, allowing a
combination of individual and party representation in a way that is widely accepted by
representatives and the public. But the negative point of this system is its complexity, which may
make it difficult for the general public to understand, As a result, confusion may result about the
concept of votes in individual districts and electoral lists, especially when voters split their votes.

The issue of whether an MP holds a seat directly or on the list is also important, but the
variety of types of MPs on the list makes assessing the influences difficult. In general, line MPs
appear to be closer to voters and less dependent on party structures than list MPs. These results
indicate the importance of using sub-parliaments and individual constituencies in building and
developing close relationships between representatives and citizens, however, hopes for close
cooperation between members of the national parliament and members of sub-parliaments are
usually unjustified, because there is usually no reason for such cooperation. The same applies to
potential cooperation between direct representatives and list members, at least within the
framework of the mixed system adopted by the German system. 44

One of the most important findings that we have reached is that the electoral system in
Germany has significant effects on the party system, in terms of producing a multi-party system
and the factions’ need for coalitions in order to be able to reach the majority required to form the
government, and the (5%) barrier reduced the effectiveness of the representation system.
Relative, as it acted as an obstacle to the representation of small parties.

44
WERNER J. PATZELT, 0pcit, pp 47–70.

18
 We concluded that there is no unified electoral system for all German states. Some of
them follow a majority system, some follow a proportional representation system, and others
follow a mixed system. This flexibility stems from the specificity of the states' needs, which is
why we found a set of differences between the federal electoral system and the states' electoral
system.

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