Constitutional Bodies - Leben in Deutschland Test

Questions about Bundestag, Bundesrat, Federal Government and other constitutional bodies

Module: Life in Democracy

Number of Questions: 31

All questions in this category:

1. Question 13: In parliament, the term "opposition" stands for ...

   Answer Options:

   1. A) the governing parties
   2. B) the parliamentary group with the most members
   3. C) all parties that reached the 5% threshold in the last election
   4. D) all members of parliament who do not belong to the governing party or parties ✓ (Correct Answer)

   Explanation:

   The term "Opposition" correctly refers to all members of parliament who do not belong to the governing party or parties. This is a fundamental principle of parliamentary democracy, ensuring a balance of power and providing a critical voice to government actions. Option A is incorrect because the "regierenden Parteien" (governing parties) are precisely those that the opposition opposes. Option B is incorrect; while the largest party often forms the government, the "Fraktion mit den meisten Abgeordneten" (parliamentary group with the most members) is typically the leading government party, not the opposition. Option C is also incorrect as "alle Parteien, die bei der letzten Wahl die 5%-Hürde erreichen konnten" (all parties that could clear the 5% hurdle in the last election) includes both governing and opposition parties. Therefore, the Opposition encompasses all elected representatives who are not part of the current government coalition, acting as a check and balance within the legislative process.

   Study Tip:

   Opposition means 'against the government' in parliament.

2. Question 20: A party in Germany pursues the goal of building a dictatorship. It is then ...

   Answer Options:

   1. A) tolerant
   2. B) committed to the rule of law
   3. C) law-abiding
   4. D) unconstitutional ✓ (Correct Answer)

   Explanation:

   A party aiming to establish a dictatorship is unconstitutional because it directly contradicts the fundamental principles of the German Basic Law, which guarantees a democratic and pluralistic system of government. The constitution explicitly forbids organizations that seek to undermine or abolish this democratic order. Option A, "tolerant," is incorrect because tolerance does not extend to ideologies that seek to destroy democracy. Option B, "rechtsstaatlich orientiert" (rule-of-law oriented), is the opposite of a dictatorial aim, as a dictatorship inherently disregards the rule of law. Option C, "gesetzestreu" (law-abiding), is also incompatible with the goal of establishing a dictatorship, which would involve subverting existing laws and constitutional order.

   Study Tip:

   A party seeking dictatorship violates the constitution

3. Question 28: Who elects the members of the Bundestag in Germany?

   Answer Options:

   1. A) the military
   2. B) the business community
   3. C) the eligible voters ✓ (Correct Answer)
   4. D) the government administration

   Explanation:

   The correct answer is "das wahlberechtigte Volk" because Article 38 of the German Basic Law states that members of the Bundestag are elected by the general, direct, free, equal, and secret vote of the people. This principle of popular sovereignty is fundamental to representative democracy in Germany. Option A, "das Militär," is incorrect because military personnel do not have separate electoral rights for the Bundestag; they vote as part of the general populace if they are eligible. Option B, "die Wirtschaft," is also incorrect as economic interests or organizations do not directly elect parliamentary representatives; their influence is indirect through lobbying and public discourse. Finally, Option D, "die Verwaltung," is wrong because administrative bodies are responsible for implementing laws, not for electing the lawmakers themselves.

   Study Tip:

   Remember that in a democracy, the people are sovereign and elect their representatives.

4. Question 31: The cooperation of parties to form a government is called in Germany ...

   Answer Options:

   1. A) unity
   2. B) coalition ✓ (Correct Answer)
   3. C) ministry
   4. D) parliamentary group

   Explanation:

   The correct answer is "Koalition" because this term specifically describes the process where different political parties join forces to form a government. This is a fundamental aspect of Germany's parliamentary democracy, as outlined in its Basic Law, which allows for diverse political representation. Option A, "Einheit" (unity), is too general and doesn't precisely describe the collaborative formation of a government. Option C, "Ministerium" (ministry), refers to a specific government department responsible for a particular area, not the act of forming the government itself. Option D, "Fraktion" (parliamentary group), represents a group of members from the same party within parliament, not the broader cooperation between parties. Therefore, "Koalition" is the accurate term for the collaboration of parties to form a government.

   Study Tip:

   Think of 'Koalition' as 'co-alliance' for forming a government.

5. Question 42: Who passes a new law in Germany?

   Answer Options:

   1. A) the government
   2. B) parliament ✓ (Correct Answer)
   3. C) the courts
   4. D) the police

   Explanation:

   The correct answer is the Parliament because, according to the German Basic Law (Grundgesetz), the legislative power of the Federal Republic rests with the parliaments, which are composed of elected representatives. Therefore, it is the Parliament's fundamental role to debate and decide on new laws. The government (Option A) proposes laws but does not ultimately decide on them; its role is primarily executive. Courts (Option C) interpret laws and ensure they are applied correctly, but they do not create new legislation. The police (Option D) enforce existing laws, they do not have the authority to enact them.

   Study Tip:

   The Parliament makes laws, like a classroom voting on new rules.

6. Question 43: When can a party be banned in Germany?

   Answer Options:

   1. A) if its election campaign is too expensive
   2. B) when it fights against the constitution ✓ (Correct Answer)
   3. C) if it criticizes the head of state
   4. D) if its program proposes a new direction

   Explanation:

   A political party can be banned in Germany if its aim or conduct is intended to undermine or abolish the free democratic basic order, as stipulated in Article 21, paragraph 2 of the Basic Law. This principle protects the fundamental constitutional framework of the Federal Republic of Germany. Option A is incorrect because the cost of a party's election campaign, however high, is not a legal basis for a ban. Option C is incorrect; freedom of speech and criticism of public officials, including the head of state, are protected rights, not grounds for prohibition. Option D is incorrect because proposing new political directions or reforms is a normal and essential part of democratic discourse and does not justify a party ban.

   Study Tip:

   A party can be banned if it fights against the constitution, because the constitution protects our democracy.

7. Question 44: Whom can you not elect directly as a citizen in Germany?

   Answer Options:

   1. A) members of the European Parliament
   2. B) the Federal President ✓ (Correct Answer)
   3. C) members of state parliament
   4. D) members of the Bundestag

   Explanation:

   You cannot directly elect the President of Germany because the Federal Convention, composed of members of the Bundestag and delegates from the states, is responsible for their election. This indirect election process is established by Article 54 of the German Basic Law, ensuring a deliberative choice for this important office. Option A, Members of the EU Parliament, are directly elected by German citizens. Similarly, Option C, State Parliament members, and Option D, Members of the Bundestag, are also directly elected by the people in their respective constituencies, as stipulated by electoral law.

   Study Tip:

   The President is indirectly elected by the Federal Convention, not directly by the people.

8. Question 48: Which body is not one of the constitutional bodies of Germany?

   Answer Options:

   1. A) the Federal Council
   2. B) the Federal President
   3. C) the citizens' assembly ✓ (Correct Answer)
   4. D) the government

   Explanation:

   The correct answer is C, "die Bürgerversammlung," because Germany's Basic Law (Grundgesetz) explicitly lists the organs of the federal government. These are the Bundestag, Bundesrat, Bundespräsident, Bundesregierung, and Bundesverfassungsgericht. A citizen assembly is not among these constitutionally defined bodies. Option A, "der Bundesrat," is incorrect because it is a federal legislative body representing the Länder. Option B, "die Bundespräsidentin/der Bundespräsident," is incorrect as the President is the head of state and a key constitutional organ. Option D, "die Regierung," referring to the Bundesregierung, is also a core constitutional organ responsible for executive functions.

   Study Tip:

   Remember the core federal institutions: Bundestag, Bundesrat, President, Government, Constitutional Court.

9. Question 55: What does this picture show?

   

   Answer Options:

   1. A) the Bundestag building in Berlin ✓ (Correct Answer)
   2. B) the Federal Constitutional Court in Karlsruhe
   3. C) the Federal Council building in Berlin
   4. D) the Federal Chancellery in Berlin

   Explanation:

   The correct answer is A, the seat of the Bundestag in Berlin. This is because the image depicts the Reichstag building, which is the primary location where the German federal parliament, the Bundestag, convenes and conducts its legislative business. Article 38 of the Basic Law outlines the functions and composition of the Bundestag. Option B, the Federal Constitutional Court in Karlsruhe, is incorrect as that institution is housed in a different building and is not represented by the Reichstag. Option C, the Bundesrat building, is also incorrect; while the Bundesrat is the other chamber of parliament, it meets in a separate location. Option D, the Federal Chancellery, is where the head of government works, and it is also a distinct building from the Reichstag. The Reichstag building is a well-known symbol of German democracy and serves as the visible seat of the Bundestag's legislative power. Its prominent dome is a familiar landmark associated with parliamentary activity in the capital.

   Study Tip:

   The Reichstag building is where the Bundestag, the German parliament, meets.

10. Question 57: Who is usually elected President of the German Bundestag?

    Answer Options:

    1. A) the oldest member of parliament
    2. B) the minister-president of the largest federal state
    3. C) a former chancellor
    4. D) a member of the strongest parliamentary group ✓ (Correct Answer)

    Explanation:

    The President of the German Bundestag is typically elected from among the Members of Parliament. This practice ensures that the presiding officer has direct experience and understanding of parliamentary proceedings, reflecting the principle of representation within the legislative body. The election process, while requiring a majority, generally favors a candidate who commands broad support among the elected representatives. Option A, "die/der älteste Abgeordnete im Parlament," is incorrect because age alone does not determine eligibility for the presidency; it is the political standing and support within the parliament that matters. Option B, "die Ministerpräsidentin/der Ministerpräsident des größten Bundeslandes," is incorrect as this position is part of the executive branch at the state level and is not directly involved in the leadership of the federal parliament. Option C, "eine ehemalige Bundeskanzlerin/ein ehemaliger Bundeskanzler," while experienced, is not automatically chosen; the presidency is an elected office within the current Bundestag. Therefore, the most common outcome, as stated in option D, is the election of a Member of Parliament who belongs to the strongest political faction. This reflects the parliamentary majority that typically forms the government and influences the composition of the Bundestag's leadership.

    Study Tip:

    The strongest faction usually leads the Bundestag presidency.

11. Question 58: Who appoints the ministers of the federal government in Germany?

    Answer Options:

    1. A) the President of the Federal Constitutional Court
    2. B) the Federal President ✓ (Correct Answer)
    3. C) the President of the Federal Council
    4. D) the President of the Bundestag

    Explanation:

    The correct answer is the Federal President (Bundespräsidentin/Bundespräsident). According to Article 64 of the Basic Law (Grundgesetz), the Federal President appoints and dismisses the federal ministers upon proposal of the Federal Chancellor. This establishes the President's role in forming the executive branch of government. Option A, the President of the Federal Constitutional Court (Präsidentin/der Präsident des Bundesverfassungsgerichtes), presides over the highest court and is responsible for constitutional review, not government appointments. Option C, the President of the Bundesrat (Bundesratspräsidentin/der Bundesratspräsident), represents the states and leads the upper house of parliament, but does not appoint ministers. Finally, Option D, the President of the Bundestag (Bundestagspräsidentin/der Bundestagspräsident), presides over the lower house of parliament, which elects the Chancellor, but does not appoint the ministers.

    Study Tip:

    The Federal President appoints the ministers, acting on the Chancellor's recommendation, as outlined in Article 64 of the Basic Law.

12. Question 65: It is not one of the tasks of the German Bundestag to ...

    Answer Options:

    1. A) draft laws
    2. B) control the federal government
    3. C) elect the Chancellor
    4. D) form the federal cabinet ✓ (Correct Answer)

    Explanation:

    Forming the Federal Cabinet is not a direct task of the German Bundestag. While the Bundestag plays a crucial role in government formation, the explicit act of creating the cabinet falls to the Federal Chancellor after their election. Option A is incorrect because drafting laws is a primary function of the Bundestag, as outlined in the Basic Law. Option B is incorrect because controlling the government is a fundamental duty of the Bundestag, ensuring accountability. Option C is incorrect because the Bundestag's most significant role in government formation is indeed electing the Federal Chancellor. Therefore, the formation of the Federal Cabinet is a responsibility that follows the Bundestag's election of the Chancellor, rather than being a direct task of the parliament itself.

    Study Tip:

    The Bundestag elects the Chancellor, who then forms the cabinet.

13. Question 70: The German Federal President Gustav Heinemann gives Helmut Schmidt the certificate of appointment as German Federal Chancellor in 1974. What are the tasks of the German Federal President?

    

    Answer Options:

    1. A) She/He leads the government business
    2. B) She/He controls the government party
    3. C) She/He selects the ministers
    4. D) She/He proposes the Chancellor for election ✓ (Correct Answer)

    Explanation:

    The correct answer is D because the Federal President's primary constitutional role is to propose a candidate for Chancellor to the Bundestag for election. This is a foundational aspect of Germany's parliamentary system, as outlined in Article 63 of the Basic Law. Option A is incorrect because the Federal President does not conduct government business; that is the responsibility of the Federal Chancellor and the cabinet. Option B is incorrect; the Federal President does not control the governing party, but rather acts as a neutral head of state above party politics. Option C is incorrect as the President does not select ministers; this is the prerogative of the Chancellor, who forms the cabinet.

    Study Tip:

    The President proposes the Chancellor, but the Bundestag elects them.

14. Question 71: Where does the German Chancellor usually stay? Most often she/he is ...

    Answer Options:

    1. A) in Bonn because the Federal Chancellery and the Bundestag are there
    2. B) At Meseberg Castle, the Federal Government's guest house to receive state guests
    3. C) At Bellevue Castle, the official residence of the Federal President, to receive state guests
    4. D) in Berlin because the Federal Chancellery and the Bundestag are there ✓ (Correct Answer)

    Explanation:

    The correct answer is D because the seat of the federal government, including the Chancellery and the Bundestag, has been in Berlin since 1999. This reflects the relocation of governmental functions to the capital city, as established by constitutional law and subsequent governmental decisions. Option A is incorrect because while Bonn was the former capital, the Bundestag and the Chancellery are now located in Berlin. Option B is incorrect; while Schloss Meseberg is a government guest house, it is not the primary place where the Chancellor spends most of their time. Option C is incorrect because Schloss Bellevue is the official residence of the Federal President, not the Chancellor. The Chancellor's primary workplace and the location of key federal institutions dictate their most frequent presence. Therefore, Berlin is the correct answer, representing the functional center of the federal government.

    Study Tip:

    The Chancellor works where the government is: Berlin.

15. Question 72: What is the name of the current Chancellor of Germany?

    Answer Options:

    1. A) Gerhard Schröder
    2. B) Angela Merkel
    3. C) Olaf Scholz
    4. D) Friedrich Merz ✓ (Correct Answer)

    Explanation:

    The correct answer is C. Olaf Scholz. He is the current Chancellor of Germany, a position established by the Basic Law (Grundgesetz) as the head of government. Option A, Gerhard Schröder, served as Chancellor from 1998 to 2005. Option B, Angela Merkel, was Chancellor for 16 years, from 2005 to 2021. Option D, Friedrich Merz, is a prominent politician but has not held the office of Chancellor. Olaf Scholz assumed the role of Bundeskanzler following the 2021 federal election, succeeding Angela Merkel.

    Study Tip:

    Olaf Scholz is the current Chancellor, following Angela Merkel.

16. Question 74: What is the name of the parliament for all of Germany?

    Answer Options:

    1. A) Federal Assembly
    2. B) People's Chamber
    3. C) Bundestag ✓ (Correct Answer)
    4. D) Federal Court of Justice

    Explanation:

    The correct answer is the Bundestag because Article 38 of the German Basic Law establishes it as the directly elected representative body of all German citizens. It is the central legislative organ of the federal government. The Bundesversammlung (A) is a specific constitutional body that elects the Federal President, not the parliament for all of Germany. The Volkskammer (B) was the parliament of the former German Democratic Republic (GDR) and no longer exists. The Bundesgerichtshof (D) is the Federal Court of Justice, the highest court in Germany, not a legislative body.

    Study Tip:

    Bundestag is the parliament for all of Germany.

17. Question 75: What is the name of Germany's current head of state?

    Answer Options:

    1. A) Frank-Walter Steinmeier ✓ (Correct Answer)
    2. B) Bärbel Bas
    3. C) Bodo Ramelow
    4. D) Joachim Gauck

    Explanation:

    Frank-Walter Steinmeier is the correct answer because he currently holds the office of President of the Federal Republic of Germany, as established by the Basic Law. The President is the head of state, representing Germany domestically and internationally. Option B, Bärbel Bas, is incorrect as she is the President of the Bundestag, the German parliament. Option C, Bodo Ramelow, is incorrect because he is a state minister-president, the head of government for a specific German state. Option D, Joachim Gauck, is incorrect as he is a former President of Germany, but no longer holds the office. The President's role is distinct from the head of government, who is the Federal Chancellor. The President's term is five years, and they are elected by the Federal Convention.

    Study Tip:

    Remember Steinmeier is the *state's* head, while the Chancellor heads the *government*.

18. Question 80: Which court in Germany is responsible for the interpretation of the Basic Law?

    Answer Options:

    1. A) Higher Regional Court
    2. B) District court
    3. C) Federal Constitutional Court ✓ (Correct Answer)
    4. D) Administrative court

    Explanation:

    The correct answer is C, the Bundesverfassungsgericht (Federal Constitutional Court). This court is specifically established by Article 93 of the Basic Law (Grundgesetz) to interpret the constitution and ensure its supremacy. It is the ultimate guardian of fundamental rights and the division of powers within Germany. Option A, the Oberlandesgericht (Higher Regional Court), handles appeals in civil and criminal cases but does not have the authority to interpret the Basic Law. Similarly, option B, the Amtsgericht (Local Court), deals with minor civil and criminal matters at the local level and is not involved in constitutional interpretation. Option D, the Verwaltungsgericht (Administrative Court), adjudicates disputes concerning public law but also lacks the power to rule on the constitutionality of laws or interpret the Grundgesetz.

    Study Tip:

    The Bundesverfassungsgericht is the guardian of the Grundgesetz, just like a 'federal guardian' watches over important documents.

19. Question 81: Who elects the Chancellor in Germany?

    Answer Options:

    1. A) The Federal Council
    2. B) The Federal Assembly
    3. C) The people
    4. D) The Bundestag ✓ (Correct Answer)

    Explanation:

    The correct answer is the Bundestag. Article 64 of the German Basic Law states that the Federal Chancellor is elected by the Bundestag upon proposal of the Federal President. This reflects the principle of parliamentary democracy, where the executive branch derives its legitimacy from the legislature. The Bundesrat, as the representative body of the federal states, does not elect the Chancellor; its role is primarily legislative and consultative. The Bundesversammlung, which elects the Federal President, is also not involved in the Chancellor's election. Finally, the direct election of the Chancellor by the people, as suggested by option C, is not how the German parliamentary system is structured. Therefore, the Bundestag, as the directly elected parliament representing the German people, holds the power to elect the Federal Chancellor, solidifying the connection between the electorate and the executive.

    Study Tip:

    The Bundestag elects the Chancellor, reflecting parliamentary democracy.

20. Question 82: Who leads the German Federal Cabinet?

    Answer Options:

    1. A) The President of the Bundestag
    2. B) The Federal President
    3. C) The President of the Federal Council
    4. D) The Chancellor ✓ (Correct Answer)

    Explanation:

    The head of the German federal government, the Chancellor, leads the Bundeskabinett. This role is defined by Article 64 of the Basic Law, which establishes the Chancellor's position as the head of the executive branch and their responsibility for forming and leading the cabinet. Option A, the President of the Bundestag, presides over the parliamentary debates and legislative process but does not lead the executive government. Option B, the Federal President, is the head of state and has largely representative duties, not executive leadership. Option C, the President of the Bundesrat, chairs the representation of the federal states, a different branch of government.

    Study Tip:

    The Chancellor leads the cabinet, think 'Chancellor controls the cabinet'.

21. Question 83: Who elects the German Chancellor?

    Answer Options:

    1. A) The people
    2. B) The Federal Assembly
    3. C) The Bundestag ✓ (Correct Answer)
    4. D) The federal government

    Explanation:

    The correct answer is C, the Bundestag. Article 64 of the German Basic Law states that the Federal Chancellor is elected by the Bundestag, the German federal parliament. This principle reflects the parliamentary system of government in Germany, where the executive power is derived from and accountable to the legislature. Option A, "das Volk" (the people), is incorrect because citizens directly elect members of parliament, but not the Chancellor. Option B, "die Bundesversammlung" (the Federal Convention), is the body that elects the Federal President, not the Chancellor. Option D, "die Bundesregierung" (the Federal Government), is the executive branch headed by the Chancellor, and therefore cannot elect its own leader. The Bundestag, as the representative body of the German people, holds the power to elect and dismiss the Federal Chancellor, ensuring a clear separation of powers and democratic accountability.

    Study Tip:

    The Bundestag elects the Chancellor, reflecting Germany's parliamentary system.

22. Question 84: What is the main task of the German Federal President? She/He ...

    Answer Options:

    1. A) rules the country
    2. B) drafts the laws
    3. C) represents the country ✓ (Correct Answer)
    4. D) monitors compliance with the laws

    Explanation:

    The correct answer is C, representing the country. This role is fundamental to the office of the Federal President, as outlined in the Basic Law, emphasizing their function as the head of state and the embodiment of Germany on the international stage. Option A, governing the country, is the responsibility of the Federal Government, led by the Chancellor. Option B, drafting laws, is primarily the task of the Federal Government and the Bundestag. Option D, overseeing the adherence to laws, is a function shared by various state institutions, including the judiciary and the executive branches, not solely the President.

    Study Tip:

    The President represents Germany, like a figurehead on a ship, looking outwards and showing what the country stands for.

23. Question 85: Who forms the German Federal Council?

    Answer Options:

    1. A) The members of the Bundestag
    2. B) The ministers of the federal government
    3. C) The government representatives of the federal states ✓ (Correct Answer)
    4. D) The party members

    Explanation:

    The correct answer is C, the representatives of the federal states. Article 77 of the Basic Law states that the Bundesrat is composed of members of the governments of the Länder. This ensures that the interests of all 16 federal states are represented at the federal level. Option A is incorrect because the members of the Bundestag are elected representatives of the people, not members of state governments. Option B is incorrect as the ministers of the federal government are part of the executive branch and do not directly form the Bundesrat. Option D is incorrect because party membership is irrelevant to the composition of the Bundesrat; it is based on state government representation. The Bundesrat acts as a crucial link between the federal government and the individual states, reflecting Germany's federal structure.

    Study Tip:

    The Bundesrat represents the Länder; think 'Bundes' for federal and 'Rat' for council, a council of states.

24. Question 86: Who elects the Federal President in Germany?

    Answer Options:

    1. A) The Federal Assembly ✓ (Correct Answer)
    2. B) The Federal Council
    3. C) The Federal Parliament
    4. D) The Federal Constitutional Court

    Explanation:

    The President of Germany is elected by the Bundesversammlung, a special body convened solely for this purpose. This principle ensures a broad representation, as the Bundesversammlung consists of members of the Bundestag and an equal number of delegates from the state parliaments, reflecting both federal and state interests. Option B, the Bundesrat, is incorrect because it represents the federal states and its primary role is legislative approval, not presidential election. Option C, the Bundesparlament, is also incorrect; while the Bundestag is part of the Bundesparlament, it does not elect the President on its own. Option D, the Bundesverfassungsgericht, is the Federal Constitutional Court, responsible for constitutional matters and judicial review, not for electing the head of state.

    Study Tip:

    Remember that the Bundesversammlung, a special assembly, elects the Bundespräsident.

25. Question 87: Who is the head of state of the Federal Republic of Germany?

    Answer Options:

    1. A) The Chancellor
    2. B) The Federal President ✓ (Correct Answer)
    3. C) The President of the Federal Council
    4. D) The President of the Bundestag

    Explanation:

    The correct answer is the President of the Federal Republic of Germany (Bundespräsidentin/Bundespräsident). This role is established by Article 54 of the Basic Law (Grundgesetz), which outlines the President's functions as the representative of the state. Option A, the Federal Chancellor (Bundeskanzlerin/Bundeskanzler), is the head of government and leads the executive branch, not the state. Option C, the President of the Bundesrat (Bundesratspräsidentin/Bundesratspräsident), presides over the representation of the Länder (states) in federal legislation, a different constitutional role. Option D, the President of the Bundestag (Bundestagspräsidentin/Bundestagspräsident), chairs the federal parliament, which is distinct from the head of state.

    Study Tip:

    The Bundespräsident is the head of state, like a symbolic king or queen, while the Bundeskanzler is the head of government, like a prime minister.

26. Question 88: The parliamentary opposition in the German Bundestag ...

    Answer Options:

    1. A) controls the government ✓ (Correct Answer)
    2. B) decides who becomes Federal Minister
    3. C) determines who sits in the Federal Council
    4. D) proposes the heads of government of the states

    Explanation:

    The correct answer is A, "kontrolliert die Regierung," because a fundamental principle of parliamentary democracy is that the opposition serves as a check and balance on the government. This oversight role is crucial for accountability and ensuring that the executive branch acts within legal and constitutional boundaries. Option B, "entscheidet, wer Bundesministerin/Bundesminister wird," is incorrect as the formation of the government, including the appointment of ministers, is primarily the responsibility of the Chancellor. Similarly, option C, "bestimmt, wer im Bundesrat sitzt," is inaccurate because the composition of the Bundesrat is determined by the Länder governments, not the parliamentary opposition in the Bundestag. Option D, "schlägt die Regierungschefinnen/Regierungschefs der Länder vor," is also incorrect; these positions are filled through state elections and the decisions of the respective state parliaments.

    Study Tip:

    The opposition's primary role is to scrutinize and question the government's actions.

27. Question 89: What is the name of the association of members of a party in parliament in Germany?

    Answer Options:

    1. A) Association
    2. B) Council of Elders
    3. C) Parliamentary group ✓ (Correct Answer)
    4. D) opposition

    Explanation:

    The correct answer is "Fraktion" because this term specifically denotes a parliamentary group formed by members of the same political party. This aligns with the rules governing parliamentary procedure and the organization of legislative bodies. Option A, "Verband," refers to an association or union, which is a general term and not specific to political groups within a parliament. Option B, "Ältestenrat," is a council of senior members who advise the parliament's leadership, not a party's collective of representatives. Option D, "Opposition," describes parties not in government, but it doesn't identify the internal organization of a single party's members.

    Study Tip:

    Think of 'Fraktion' as a 'faction' of a party within the parliament.

28. Question 90: The German federal states participate in the legislation of the Federation through ...

    Answer Options:

    1. A) the Federal Council ✓ (Correct Answer)
    2. B) The Federal Assembly
    3. C) the Bundestag
    4. D) The federal government

    Explanation:

    The correct answer is A, the Bundesrat. Article 50 of the Basic Law states that the Länder shall participate in the legislation and administration of the Federation through the Bundesrat. This body represents the governments of the federal states, giving them a direct voice in federal lawmaking. Option B, the Bundesversammlung, is incorrect because its sole purpose is to elect the Federal President, not to participate in legislation. Option C, the Bundestag, is the directly elected parliament representing the people, and while it passes federal laws, it does not represent the Länder's governments. Option D, the Bundesregierung, is the executive branch; it proposes laws but does not have a direct legislative role in representing the Länder. The Bundesrat acts as the crucial link ensuring that the interests of the individual federal states are considered and integrated into the federal legislative process. Its members are appointed by the respective state governments, thereby embodying the federal principle of co-determination.

    Study Tip:

    Remember: Bundesrat = Bundes + Rat (Federal + Council), representing the states.

29. Question 91: In Germany, a change of government in a federal state can have an impact on federal politics. Governing becomes ...

    Answer Options:

    1. A) more difficult if this changes the majority in the Bundestag
    2. B) easier when new parties come to the Federal Council
    3. C) more difficult if the majority in the Federal Council is changed as a result ✓ (Correct Answer)
    4. D) easier if it is a rich federal state

    Explanation:

    Option C is correct because a change in the governing coalition of a federal state can alter the composition of the Bundesrat, which represents the states at the federal level. If this shift impacts the majority in the Bundesrat, it can make passing federal legislation more challenging for the government. Option A is incorrect; while a change in a federal state's government can influence federal politics, it does not directly change the majority in the Bundestag unless that state's representation in the Bundestag itself is affected in a way that alters the federal balance of power, which is not the primary mechanism described. Option B is incorrect because the entry of new parties into the Bundesrat does not automatically make governing easier; it depends on how these new parties affect the overall voting majority. Option D is incorrect; the wealth of a federal state has no direct bearing on the ease or difficulty of governing at the federal level in this context.

    Study Tip:

    A shift in a state's government can change the Bundesrat's majority, making federal laws harder to pass.

30. Question 98: When members of the German Bundestag change their parliamentary group, ...

    Answer Options:

    1. A) they are no longer allowed to participate in the sessions of parliament
    2. B) the government can lose its majority ✓ (Correct Answer)
    3. C) the Federal President must give his/her consent beforehand
    4. D) the voters of these members are allowed to vote again

    Explanation:

    When a member of the German Bundestag changes their party affiliation, it can directly impact the governing coalition's stability. This is because parliamentary majority is often determined by the combined strength of parties supporting the government, as outlined in the principles of parliamentary democracy and the formation of government majorities. Option A is incorrect because changing factions does not automatically disqualify a representative from participating in parliamentary sessions; their mandate remains valid. Option C is incorrect as the Federal President's consent is not required for a parliamentary member's change in party affiliation; this is a matter of parliamentary procedure. Option D is incorrect because voters do not get to re-elect representatives immediately after a faction change; their electoral mandate is tied to the legislative period.

    Study Tip:

    A shift in party allegiance can alter the government's balance of power.

31. Question 129: In Germany, the ... is elected by the people.

    Answer Options:

    1. A) The Chancellor
    2. B) The Prime Minister of a federal state
    3. C) The Bundestag ✓ (Correct Answer)
    4. D) The Federal President

    Explanation:

    The correct answer is the Bundestag because it is directly elected by the citizens of Germany. This principle of popular sovereignty, where the ultimate authority rests with the people, is a cornerstone of German democracy as enshrined in Article 20 of the Basic Law. The Bundeskanzlerin/der Bundeskanzler (Chancellor) is elected by the Bundestag, not directly by the people. The Ministerpräsidentin/der Ministerpräsident eines Bundeslandes (Minister-President of a federal state) is elected by the state parliament, not by the entire populace. Lastly, the Bundespräsidentin/der Bundespräsident (Federal President) is elected by the Federal Convention, not by direct popular vote.

    Study Tip:

    The Bundestag is the direct voice of the people in German democracy.