Question 26
What does 'rule of law' mean in Germany?
German original: Was bedeutet 'Rechtsstaat' in Deutschland?. In the test, all questions are asked in German.
Answer options
- The state is right.
- There are only right-wing parties.
- Citizens decide on laws.
- The state must comply with the laws. — Correct answer
Explanation
The rule of law (Rechtsstaat) means the state itself must comply with its own laws. State action is bound by law and reviewable by independent courts.
Key terms in this question
- Germany — Germany is a country in central Europe with a parliamentary democracy. It is a member of the European Union and its capital is Berlin.
- State — A state is an organized community with a defined territory, a population, and a government that creates and enforces laws.
- law / right — A rule established by the state that applies to everyone in a country. It can also mean a personal entitlement or freedom that a person is guaranteed.
- Federal state — A federal state is one of the 16 regions that together form Germany. Each state has its own government, parliament, and areas of responsibility.
- Rule of law / constitutional state — A constitutional state is a state in which all people, including the government, are bound by laws and no one is above them. Fundamental rights are protected by independent courts.
- German — German is the official language of Germany, Austria, and part of Switzerland. It is the native language of approximately 100 million people.