SEM 8: Germany since 1990: politics, society and the economy

Reunification

The process of East and West Germany becoming one nation in 1990.

Treaty of Maastricht

A 1993 treaty that led to the foundation of the European Union and the euro currency.

Chancellorship of Angela Merkel

Merkel's tenure from 2005 to 2021, noted for stability and crisis management.

AfD (Alternative for Germany)

A far-right political party that emerged in response to immigration and globalization issues.

Demographic Shifts

Changes in population dynamics, such as declining birth rates and increased immigration.

Ostalgie

Nostalgia among some former East Germans for life in the GDR (German Democratic Republic).

Hartz Reforms

Labor market reforms enacted in the early 2000s aimed at reducing unemployment in Germany.

Energiewende

Germany's policy aimed at transitioning to renewable energy sources and reducing nuclear power.

Solidarity Tax

A tax introduced to help fund the costs of reunifying East and West Germany.

Political Fragmentation

The division of political parties and ideologies leading to a more complex political landscape.

Basic Law (Grundgesetz)

The constitution of Germany, providing the legal framework for democratic governance.

Eurozone crisis

A financial crisis affecting countries in the euro area, notably involving Greece and austerity measures.

2015 Refugee Crisis

The influx of over one million refugees into Germany, leading to significant political shifts.

Integration Issues

Challenges faced in assimilating immigrants into German society.

Right-Wing Populism

Political movement characterized by nationalist and anti-immigration sentiments.

Euro Adoption

The process of transitioning from national currencies to the euro in European countries.

Crisis Management

The strategies employed by leaders to address economic and political challenges.

Economic Disparities

The uneven economic development and opportunities between different regions, particularly East and West Germany.

Labor Market Shortages

The situation where demand for workers exceeds the available supply of qualified individuals.

Social Movements

Collective efforts by groups to promote social change and address issues like gender equality and climate change.

Multiculturalism

The coexistence of diverse cultural groups within Germany, especially following significant immigration.

Public Health Measures

Regulations implemented to protect public health during crises, such as the COVID-19 pandemic.

Judicial Independence

The principle that the judiciary should operate free of influence from other branches of government.

Press Freedom

The right of media organizations to operate independently without government interference.

Pension Pressure

Challenges faced by the pension system due to an aging population and fewer workers.

Trade Dependence

Germany's economic reliance on exports and international trade, particularly with the EU and China.

Fiscal Policies

Government strategies for managing revenue and expenditure to ensure economic stability.

Integration into the EU

Germany's increasing involvement and leadership within European Union structures and policies.

Environmental Activism

Grassroots movements focused on promoting environmental protection and sustainable practices.

National Identity

The collective sense of belonging and identity shaped by history, culture, and shared experiences.

Labor Market Reforms

Changes aimed at improving the efficiency and effectiveness of the labor market.

Economic Powerhouse

A country with a robust and influential economy, particularly in exports and industry.

Cultural Identity

The identity of a group based on shared culture, language, and history.

Urbanization

The increasing population in urban areas compared to rural zones, often seen in post-reunification Germany.

Political Accountability

The obligation of political leaders to answer for their actions and decisions to the public.

Gender Equality

The state of equal access to resources and opportunities regardless of gender.

Integration Policies

Government strategies aimed at helping immigrants assimilate into the host society.

Economic Hub

A city or region that serves as a central point for economic activity and commerce.

Neo-liberal Economics

An economic philosophy that emphasizes free markets, privatization, and limited government intervention.

Export-Driven Economy

An economy that focuses significantly on selling goods and services to international markets.

Nationalism

Strong identification with one's own nation, often leading to an emphasis on sovereignty and cultural identity.

Wage Gaps

Disparities in income levels between different regions or demographics, often seen between East and West Germany.