International Organizations
There have to be joint efforts to tackle global challenges; Germany is committed to supporting peace, human rights, freedom, justice and devolopment in the framework of international organizations.
Germany has been a member of the United Nations Security Council since January 1, 2011. For the next two years Germany will shoulder a special responsibility for international affairs.
Security Council Member
The North Atlantic Alliance (NATO)
On April 4, 1949, twelve states from Europe and North America signed the North Atlantic Treaty in Washington, DC. Today, this defense alliance has more than 20 member states. Germany joined the organization in 1955.
Germany in NATO
The Group of Eight (G-8)
The G-8 comprises Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Russia, the United Kingdom and the United States; the European Commission is also represented. in 2007, Germany held the G8 Presidency. Shaping globalization and helping Africa to develop were key focuses of the summit held in Heiligendamm.
The Group of Eight
European Union (EU)
The European Union is the biggest political success story of the past 50 years. Peace and prosperity, freedom and security are achievements cherished by all EU citizens. Germany is a founding member of the organization and plays a very active role in shaping today's enlarged EU.
European Union
The Council of Europe (COE)
Since its founding in 1949, the Council of Europe has been working to promote human rights, pluralist democracy and the rule of law. The Federal Government views the Council of Europe as leading the way in the creation and implementation of a common European judicial area and a European community of shared values.
The Council of Europe
OSCE
The Organization for Organization and Co-Operation in Europe (OSCE) is a comprehensive forum for cooperation at the pan-European level. Germany makes a substantial contribution.
OSCE
