This book provides a detailed introduction to how the Lander (the 16 states of Germany) function not only within the country itself but also within the wider context of European political affairs. Some knowledge of the role of the Lander is essential to an understanding of the political system as well as of German federalism. This book traces the origin of the Lander. It looks at their place in the constitutional order of the country and the political and administrative system. Their organization and administration are fully covered, as is their financing. Parties and elections in the Lander and the controversial roles of parliaments and deputies are also examined.

This study explores the following puzzle: Upon national unification, why was Germany formed as a federal state and Italy a unitary state? Ziblatt's answer to this question will be of interest to scholars of international relations, comparative politics, political development, and political and economic history.

This electronic version has been made available under a Creative Commons (BY-NC-ND) open access license. An illuminating introduction to how the Lander (the sixteen states of Germany) function not only within the country itself but also within the wider context of European political affairs. Looks at the Lnader in the constitutional order of the country, and the political and administrative system. Their organization and administration is fully covered, as is their financial administration. The role of parties and elections in the Lander is looked at, and the importance of their parliaments. The first work in the English language that considers the Lander in this depth.

Understanding Germany's federal structure is crucial to understanding contemporary Germany. The federal system shaped the way German unification was carried out, it shapes the way in which policies are made, and it plays a role in determining the way in which Germany presents its priorities in the EU. The first part of the book analyzes the nature of pre-unification West German federalism and the unique challenge posed for the federal system by unification. Part 2 takes stock of key issues in the operation of post-unification federalism, including the policy process, the role of parties in federalism, conflicts of interest over financial allocations, and the impact of deepening European integration. The final part offers a series of critical perspectives which address the long-term legacies of unification and increasing pressures for reform.

Since unification German society and institutions have been challenged by various transformations and the need to adjust to changing conditions. While much has been accomplished, many political, legal, and institutional problems remain. This volume deals with selected aspects of domestic and European policy, political parties, the challenge of direct democracy, and federalism in unified Germany – all issues that have been the subject of much discussion, political posturing, legislation, and, to some extent, constitutional amendments and court decision for many years, if not decades. In conclusion, a British scholar looks at German federalism and a number of public policy issues from a comparative perspective and arrives at some surprising and encouraging results.

This book explores the German idea of federalism denoting 'diversity within unity'. Historians, linguists and political scientists examine how federalism emerged in the Holy Roman Empire, was re-shaped by nineteenth-century cultural movements, and was adopted by the unified state in 1871 and again after 1945. The myth of federalism as a safeguard against totalitarianism is tested in regard to the Third Reich and the GDR. The book concludes with an outlook on German federalism's future in Europe.

The central objective of this book is to deepen understanding in the English speaking world of the West German federal system. It evaluates the effectiveness of that system in practice, both over recent history and in the time of the great challenge of re-unification.