Germany in the 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 European Union.
In 2013 we are celebrating the 50th anniversary of the Élysée Treaty, which marked a profound and historic change in the relationship between France and Germany.
Élysée Treaty at 50
Throughout the current sovereign debt crisis, political and economic leaders in Germany and Europe have been steadfast in their commitment to fiscal discipline and to strengthening the euro.
Chancellor Merkel: "These are highly significant months for Europe’s future."
Chancellor Merkel: "Stronger growth and budget consolidation must go hand in hand."
Chancellor Merkel “Not even Germany’s forces are unlimited."
Chancellor Merkel: "Growth through structural reforms makes sense."
Chancellor Merkel: "More free trade and open world markets are quite fundamental factors."
Foreign Minister Westerwelle: "Germany is counting on Greece’s future in Europe and as a euro member."
Foreign Minister Westerwelle: "We'll stand by our decision.”
Foreign Minister Westerwelle: "This Government needs no persuading to adopt a growth-oriented policy."
Foreign Minister Westerwelle: “Growth cannot be bought on credit."
Finance Minister Schäuble: "It is a serious and difficult decision that must be taken."
Finance Minister Schäuble: "We have rightly chosen to take integration forward in Europe."
Finance Minister Schäuble: "The euro is not the cause of the crisis."
The Making of German European Policy
Nowadays all policy fields have a European dimension. To be an effective advocate of German interests in Europe, the Federal Government must clearly have efficient mechanisms in place to coordinate its policy.
The Making of German European Policy
Participation of the Federal States in EU Affairs
The right of the Federal States (Länder) to participate in EU affairs has been strengthened in both content and formal terms as a result of European integration, which also touches upon Länder domestic competencies.
Participation of the Federal States
German as an EU Language
German is one of the EU languages accorded equal status under EEC Council Regulation No. 1 of 1958. The Federal Government is working for German language skills to be recognized as a career-enhancing qualification and has taken steps to make German courses for this target group more attractive.
German as an EU Language
