Weekend German course: 75 years of the Federal Constitutional Court

Open to EU staff based in Brussels and Luxembourg and ministry officials from the Permanent Representations of EU Member States

Language level: B2–C1

Liberal democracies are under pressure worldwide. Polarisation, targeted disinformation, attacks on institutions under the rule of law and the questioning of shared democratic foundations are shaping political debates – including in Europe. In times of social tension, it becomes particularly clear just how vulnerable democratic systems can be and how important institutions are that protect fundamental rights, oversee government action and safeguard democratic principles.

An independent judiciary is one of the cornerstones of any liberal democracy. Constitutional courts provide guidance, set limits on state power and defend the principles of the rule of law – often precisely when political majorities or public sentiment come under pressure.

For 75 years, the Federal Constitutional Court in Germany has played a special role in this regard: as the guardian of the Basic Law, as the guarantor of individual civil liberties, and as an institution whose decisions attract attention far beyond Germany’s borders.

Nevertheless, there are recurring debates about the powers of the Federal Constitutional Court – particularly regarding the banning of political parties. Are the courts taking on tasks here that should really be the preserve of the political sphere?

At the same time, attention is also turning to the reverse perspective: the influence of politics on the procedures and structures of constitutional courts, for example with the aim of better protecting them from future political interference. Thus, on the one hand, there is discussion in Germany about anchoring the independence of the Federal Constitutional Court more firmly in the Basic Law. On the other hand, in Saxony-Anhalt, the two-thirds majority required for the election of judges there has been lowered in certain cases to ensure the court’s ability to function.

To mark the 75th anniversary of the Federal Constitutional Court, this weekend German course invites participants first to gain an insight into the German constitutional system and then to engage in-depth with the issues mentioned. The European context will also be taken into account.

Further information on the course programme will follow.