Distribution of Responsibilities : Germany

The Federal Republic of Germany has three levels of government: federal, state and local. Their responsibilities in their respective areas are governed by the Basic Law. Generally speaking, they have to meet the necessary expenditure themselves. Hence public revenue does not flow into a joint account but is instead distributed among the federal, state and local governments.

The lowest level of public administration is that of the municipality. Allocation of responsibilities to the municipalities is reserved to the states. The municipality is concerned with all matters that directly concern the local community and individual citizens. It is thus responsible for water supply and disposal, refuse disposal, maintenance of local roads, local welfare and health services as well as construction and maintenance of primary and secondary general schools.

The states have jurisdiction for all aspects of government, unless the Basic Law specifically provides other-wise or leaves open the possibility of a different arrangement. Their main responsibilities fall into the category of cultural affairs and primarily concern schools and education. The administration of justice, the police and public health services also fall within the states’ purview.