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Germany

Boundary Delimitation

BD01 Are constituencies delimited for election purposes?
a. Yes

Source: Hermann Glaab, Deputy Federal Returning Officer, Germany, bundeswahlleiter(a)destatis.de
Last updated: Wed, 19 Jun 2002 16:27:42 GMT

BD02 The authority responsible for final approval of the constituency boundaries is:
a. The legislature (national/subnational)

Comments: a) National (German Bundestag).
Source: Federal Electoral Law, Ch.1, § 5 (4)
Last updated: 2007-01-02 09:48:47 UTC

BD03 On what criteria are the boundaries drawn?
a. "Equality" of population
d. Conformity with local jurisdiction boundaries

Source: Federal Electoral Law, Ch.1, § 3 (1)
Last updated: 2007-01-02 09:48:47 UTC

BD04 If population is a criterion, which population figure is used?
b. Citizen population

Source: Federal Electoral Law, Ch.1, § 3 (1)
Last updated: 2007-01-02 09:48:47 UTC

BD05 The body responsible for drawing the boundaries is:
a. Legislature (specify chamber)

Comments: a) Deutcher Bundestag. (Chamber 1)
Source: Hermann Glaab, Deputy Federal Returning Officer, Germany, bundeswahlleiter(a)destatis.de
Last updated: Tue, 25 Jun 2002 10:20:15 GMT

BD06 What statistical or other reasons trigger the redrawing of electoral constituency boundaries?
d. Changes in distribution of total population
g. Changes in administrative boundaries
k. Boundaries redrawn every____period of years

Comments: k) Boundaries redrawn every period of 4 years (legislative term)
Source: Federal Electoral Law, Ch.1, § 3 (1, 3, 4)
Last updated: 2007-01-02 09:48:47 UTC

Direct Democracy

DD01 Please provide information about the person completing the questionnaire.
a. Name and Title: Doreen Namislo
b. Job Title: Assistant Lecturer
c. Organisation: Office of the Federal Returning Officer
d. Contact Address. Gustav-Stresemann-Ring 11, 65189 Wiesbaden, Germany
e. Telephone: + 49 (0611) 75 - 2339
f. Facsimile: + 49 (0611) 75 - 3964
g. Email: bundeswahlleiter@destatis.de

Last updated: 2005-04-18 11:43:06 UTC

DD02 Which forms of direct democracy, if any, are currently possible at the national level? Please check the glossary for the definition of the following terms:
f. None

Comments: Exception: In case of restructuring the federal territory (changing the boundaries of certain Länder). The federal law or Länder treaty concerned has to be confirmed by an mandatory referendum.
Source: Article 29 of the Basic Law (German Constitution)
Last updated: 2005-04-11 12:33:37 UTC

DD03 What is the legal basis for mandatory referendums at the national level?
e. Not applicable

Last updated: 2005-04-13 13:17:04 UTC

DD04 What is the legal basis for optional referendums at the national level?
e. Not applicable

Last updated: 2005-04-13 13:17:20 UTC

DD05 What is the legal basis for citizens' initiatives at the national level?
e. Not applicable

Last updated: 2005-04-13 13:17:34 UTC

DD06 What is the legal basis for agenda initiatives at the national level?
e. Not applicable

Last updated: 2005-04-13 13:17:47 UTC

DD07 What is the legal basis for recalls at the national level?
e. Not applicable

Last updated: 2005-04-13 13:18:02 UTC

DD08 What is the legal basis for the administrative requirements for mandatory referendums at the national level? Tick as appropriate and specify the relevant constitutional, legal or regulatory provisions below.
e. Not applicable

Last updated: 2005-04-13 13:18:34 UTC

DD09 What is the legal basis for the administrative requirements for optional referendums at the national level? Tick as appropriate and specify the relevant constitutional, legal or regulatory provisions below.
e. Not applicable

Last updated: 2005-04-13 13:18:49 UTC

DD10 What is the legal basis for the administrative requirements for citizens' initiatives at the national level? Tick as appropriate and specify the relevant constitutional, legal or regulatory provisions below.
e. Not applicable

Last updated: 2005-04-13 13:19:02 UTC

DD11 What is the legal basis for the administrative requirements for agenda initiatives at the national level? Tick as appropriate and specify the relevant constitutional, legal or regulatory provisions below.
e. Not applicable

Last updated: 2005-04-13 13:19:16 UTC

DD12 What is the legal basis for the administrative requirements for recalls at the national level? Tick as appropriate and specify the relevant constitutional, legal or regulatory provisions below.
e. Not applicable

Last updated: 2005-04-13 13:19:29 UTC

DD13 When were direct democracy mechanisms first introduced into the legal framework at the national level? Date (yyyy)
f. Not applicable (X)

Last updated: 2005-04-13 13:08:48 UTC

DD14 When was an administrative framework for direct democracy mechanisms first introduced at the national level? Date (yyyy)
f. Not applicable (X)

Last updated: 2005-04-13 13:09:11 UTC

DD15 Who is responsible for managing the administration of direct democracy mechanisms at the national level?
f. Not applicable

Last updated: 2005-04-13 13:09:52 UTC

DD16 Does this agency/department also manage the administration of national elections?
c. Not applicable

Last updated: 2005-04-13 13:10:05 UTC

DD17 Are mandatory referendums currently possible at first tier (regions/states/provinces, etc) authority level?
c. No

Last updated: 2005-04-13 13:11:00 UTC

DD18 Are optional referendums currently possible at first tier (regions/states/provinces, etc) authority level?
b. Yes, in some regions/states/provinces

Last updated: 2005-04-13 13:11:20 UTC

DD19 Are citizens' initiatives currently possible at first tier (regions/states/provinces, etc) authority level?
b. Yes, in some regions/states/provinces

Last updated: 2005-04-13 13:11:56 UTC

DD20 Are agenda initiatives currently possible at first tier (regions/states/provinces, etc) authority level?
b. Yes, in some regions/states/provinces

Last updated: 2005-04-13 13:12:16 UTC

DD22 Are mandatory referendums currently possible at local (municipalities/districts/communes, etc) authority level?
c. No

Last updated: 2005-04-13 13:14:05 UTC

DD23 Are optional referendums currently possible at local (municipalities/districts/communes, etc) authority level?
b. Yes, in some municipalities/districts/communes

Last updated: 2005-04-13 13:14:28 UTC

DD24 Are citizens' initiatives currently possible at local (municipalities/districts/communes, etc) authority level?
b. Yes, in some municipalities/districts/communes

Last updated: 2005-04-13 13:14:47 UTC

DD25 Are agenda initiatives currently possible at local (municipalities/districts/communes, etc) authority level?
b. Yes, in some municipalities/districts/communes

Last updated: 2005-04-13 13:15:17 UTC

Electoral Management

EM01 Please provide the following contact information for the national electoral management body:
a. Name of Institution Bundeswahlleiter (Federal Returning Officers)
b. Full Address Gustav-Stresemann-Ring 11, D-65180 Wiesbaden
c. Telephone 49-611-75-23-17
d. Facsimile 49-611-72-40-00
e. Email bundeswahlleiter(a)destatis.de
f. Website Address www.destastis.de/wahlen
g. Name and Title of Chairperson/President Johann Hahlen
h. Information Officer Deputy Federal Returning Officer: Dr. Sabine Bechtold

Source: Hermann Glaab, Deputy Federal Returning Officer, Germany, bundeswahlleiter(a)destatis.de
Last updated: 2007-01-02 09:45:51 UTC

EM02 Does this national electoral body have the responsibility for elections at:
a. National level

Source: Hermann Glaab, Deputy Federal Returning Officer, Germany, bundeswahlleiter(a)destatis.de
Last updated: Wed, 19 Jun 2002 16:23:11 GMT

EM03 The national electoral management body reports to:
f. Other

Comments: The EMB (Bundeswahlleiter) is an independent body.
Source: Hermann Glaab, Deputy Federal Returning Officer, Germany, bundeswahlleiter(a)destatis.de
Last updated: Wed, 19 Jun 2002 16:24:54 GMT

EM04 The budget of the national electoral management body is determined by:
c. The legislature

Source: Hermann Glaab, Deputy Federal Returning Officer, Germany, bundeswahlleiter(a)destatis.de
Last updated: Wed, 19 Jun 2002 16:25:24 GMT

EM05 The expenditures of the national electoral management body are controlled by:
c. The legislature
d. A national government department

Source: Hermann Glaab, Deputy Federal Returning Officer, Germany, bundeswahlleiter(a)destatis.de
Last updated: Wed, 19 Jun 2002 16:25:49 GMT

EM06 The term of the members of the national electoral management body is:
c. For an unspecified period

Source: Federal Electoral Law, Ch.2, § 9
Last updated: 2007-01-02 09:45:51 UTC

EM07 The national electoral management body chairperson, or equivalent, is chosen in the following way:
e. Governmental appointment

Source: Federal Electoral Law, Ch.2, § 9 (1)
Last updated: 2007-01-02 09:45:51 UTC

EM08 According to official sources, what was the estimated overall cost (in US dollars if available) of the most recent national elections?
a. estimated total: circa 62 Million Euro

Comments: Circa 62 000 000 euro Bundestag election 2002
Source: Doreen Namislo, Bundeswahlleiter (Federal Returning Office)
Last updated: 2008-01-21 13:25:35 UTC

EM09 What was the total number of registered voters or, where there was no voter roll, the estimated number of eligible voters?
a. Total number: 6

Comments: Bundestag election 2005
Source: Doreen Namislo, Bundeswahlleiter (Federal Returning Office)
Last updated: 2007-01-02 09:45:51 UTC

EM10 What was the spending (in USD) per registered voter (NOT actual voters) or, where there was no voter roll, the estimated number of eligible voters at the last general elections?

Comments: Not applicable
Source: Doreen Namislo, Bundeswahlleiter (Federal Returning Office)
Last updated: 2007-01-02 09:45:51 UTC

EM11 What are the approximate proportions (%) of total election expenditure for the last national elections devoted to the following?

Comments: Sufficient information for answer is not present from the federal returning officer.
Source: Doreen Namislo, Bundeswahlleiter (Federal Returning Office)
Last updated: 2007-01-02 09:45:51 UTC

Electoral Systems

ES01 How is the Head of State selected?
e. Elected by electoral college or committee (specify)

Comments: e.) The Federal President is elected by the Presidential Election Council. The Presidential Election Council consists of the members of the House of Representatives (Bundestages) and an equal number of members that are elected by the State governments.
Source: Constitution, Ch.5, Art.54(1)
Last updated: Thu, 20 Jun 2002 06:34:38 GMT

ES02 How is the Head of Government selected?
c. Indirectly elected by legislature/chosen by parliament

Comments: The Head of Government (Federal Chancellor) is elected by the House of Representatives. The person elected is then appointed by the President.
Source: Constitution, Ch.6, Art.63(1-2)
Last updated: Tue, 18 Jun 2002 12:08:50 GMT

ES03 Does the country have a president?
a. Yes

Source: Constitution, Ch.5
Last updated: Tue, 18 Jun 2002 12:10:04 GMT

ES04 The national legislature consists of (one/two chambers):
b. Two chambers

Source: Constitution, Ch.3 and 4
Last updated: Tue, 18 Jun 2002 12:11:14 GMT

ES05 What is the electoral system for Chamber 1 of the national legislature?
h. Mixed Member Proportional

Source: Constitution, Ch.3, Art.38(1, 2); Federal Electoral Law, Ch.1, § 6
Last updated: 2007-01-02 09:25:14 UTC

ES06 What is the electoral system for Chamber 2 of the national legislature?
j. By appointment

Comments: The Bundesrat consists of members of 16 Land governments, which appoint and recall them.
Source: Constitution, Ch.4, Art.51(1)
Last updated: 2007-01-02 09:29:11 UTC

ES07 If List PR is used, is a highest average formula used?
e. Hare

Comments: e) Hare/Niemeyer
Source: Doreen Namislo, Bundeswahlleiter (Federal Returning Office)
Last updated: 2007-01-02 09:29:11 UTC

ES08 What is the level at which seats are distributed in Chamber 1?
a. National level

Comments: TThe seats parties achieved on national level are under-distributed on up to 16 Länder-lists of every party and takes into account constituency gains.
Source: Federal Electoral Law, Ch.1, § 5 and § 6
Last updated: 2007-01-02 09:29:11 UTC

ES09 What is the level at which seats are distributed in Chamber 2?
c. Regional or provincial level

Comments: The Bundesrat consists of members of 16 Land governments. They are elected in on Land-Level. The quantities of population in each of the 16 Länder determine the number of seats for each Land.
Source: Constitution, Ch.4, Art.51(1-3)
Last updated: 2007-01-02 09:29:11 UTC

ES10 Are special constituencies or seats reserved in Chamber 1 for specific groups, such as minorities, specific nationality or other groups?
b. No

Source: Constitution, Ch.3, Art.38
Last updated: Wed, 19 Jun 2002 15:50:12 GMT

ES11 If special constituencies or seats are reserved in Chamber 1, specify which interest groups, and the proportion of total seats reserved for:
e. Not applicable Na

Last updated: Thu, 09 May 2002 21:59:12 GMT

ES12 Are special constituencies or seats reserved in Chamber 2 for specific groups, such as minorities, specific nationality or other groups?
b. No

Source: Constitution, Ch.4, Art.51(1-3)
Last updated: Wed, 19 Jun 2002 15:52:09 GMT

ES13 If special constituencies or seats are reserved in Chamber 2, specify which interest groups, and the proportion of total seats reserved:
e. Not applicable Na

Last updated: Thu, 09 May 2002 22:00:12 GMT

ES14 What is the legally imposed minimum threshold of votes required by a party to win seats in Chamber 1?
b. Specify the percentage:

Comments: b.) 5%
Source: Federal Electoral Law, Ch.1, § 6(6)
Last updated: 2007-01-02 09:29:11 UTC

ES15 What is the legally imposed minimum threshold of votes required by a party to win seats in Chamber 2?
c. Not applicable

Comments: Senators are appointed by the State governments.
Source: Constitution, Ch.4, Art.51(1-3)
Last updated: 2007-01-02 09:29:11 UTC

ES16 What is the legally imposed minimum threshold of votes required by a candidate (independent/party) to win a seat in Chamber 1?
a. No minimum

Comments: The independent candidate must achieve the majority in the constituency.
Source: Federal Electoral Law, Ch.1, § 5
Last updated: 2007-01-02 09:29:11 UTC

ES17 What is the legally imposed minimum threshold of votes required by a candidate (independent/party) to win a seat in Chamber 2?
c. Not applicable

Last updated: Wed, 10 Apr 2002 19:29:56 GMT

ES18 Regarding the timing of the elections for Chamber 1, which of the following is true? Elections take place:
a. At fixed intervals (specify length)
c. On a fixed day of the week (specify day, specify if holiday)

Comments: a.) Chamber 1 (Bundestag) is elected every four years. c.) Election day must be a Sunday or a legal holiday.
Source: Federal Electoral Law, Ch.4, § 16
Last updated: 2007-01-02 09:29:11 UTC

ES19 Regarding the timing of the elections for Chamber 2, which of the following is true? Elections take place:
e. Not applicable

Comments: Senators are appointed by the State governments.
Source: Constitution, Ch.4, Art.51
Last updated: 2007-01-02 09:29:11 UTC

ES20 Regarding Chamber 1 elections (excluding advance voting, postal voting, etc):
a. Voting takes place on one day

Source: Federal Electoral Law, Ch.4, § 16
Last updated: 2007-01-02 09:29:11 UTC

ES21 Regarding Chamber 2 elections (excluding advance voting, postal voting, etc):
c. Not applicable

Last updated: Wed, 10 Apr 2002 19:35:05 GMT

Legislative Framework

LF01 What is the status of the electoral law governing national elections?
a. Part of Constitution
c. Decree

Comments: a) In parts a part of Constitution (Art. 38 – 48) c) National law and national regulation (Federal Electoral Law and Federal Electoral Regulations)
Source: Doreen Namislo, Bundeswahlleiter (Federal Returning Office)
Last updated: 2007-01-02 09:37:06 UTC

LF02 What is the date of the latest version of the national electoral law (including latest amendments)?
a. January 2000 or later

Comments: 21 July 2005 (Federal Electoral Law); 30 June 2005 (Federal Electoral Regulations)
Source: Federal Law Gazette I 2005, p. 1951, p. 2180
Last updated: 2007-01-02 09:37:06 UTC

LF03 The national electoral law covers:
a. National elections

Source: Constitution, Ch.3, Art.38(3)
Last updated: 2007-01-02 09:37:06 UTC

LF04 Is voting on the national level voluntary or compulsory?
a. Voting is voluntary

Source: Constitution, Ch.3, Art.38(1)
Last updated: 2007-01-02 09:37:06 UTC

LF05 Are there provisions in the law which permit or require regional and/ or local election (s) to be held on the same day as national elections?
b. National elections are held on the same day as regional and local elections

Source: Doreen Namislo, Bundeswahlleiter (Federal Returning Office)
Last updated: 2007-01-02 09:37:06 UTC

LF06 Are there provisions in the law which permit or require presidential election (s) to be held on the same day as national legislative elections?
c. Not applicable

Comments: The Federal President of Germany is not elected by the people, he is elected by a specially convened body called the Federal Assembly (Bundesversammlung) that consist of all Members of the German Bundestag (Chamber 1) and a equal number of members of the German Bundesrat (Chamber 2). So it is not possible to elect Chamber 1 and the president on the same day.
Source: Doreen Namislo, Bundeswahlleiter (Federal Returning Office)
Last updated: 2007-01-02 09:37:06 UTC

LF07 What are the agency(ies) responsible for first level of formal electoral disputes?
d. Other

Comments: The electoral scrutiny is the responsibility of the parliament (German Bundestag). Complaints against decisions by the Bundestag may be brought to the Federal Constitutional Court.
Source: Constitution, Ch.3, Art.41 (1,2)
Last updated: 2007-01-02 09:37:06 UTC

LF08 If the agency(ies) which settles formal disputes is/are specially appointed/elected; by whom?
h. Not applicable

Comments: The Bundestag is responisible for first level of formal electoral disputes.
Source: Constitution, Ch.3, Art.41
Last updated: 2007-01-02 09:37:06 UTC

LF09 Who has the right to submit cases to the person or agency(ies)which settles formal disputes?
c. Voters
e. Other

Comments: e) Each voter, each group of voters, each national returning officer, the Federal Returning Officer and the President of the Bundestag can make an objection.
Source: Electoral scrutiny law (Wahlprüfungsgesetz), § 2 (2)
Last updated: 2007-01-02 09:37:06 UTC

LF10 What body(ies) is the final appellate authority for formal electoral disputes?
b. Constitutional (or similar) Court

Comments: The Federal Constitutional Court.
Source: Constitution, Ch.3, Art.41 (1,2)
Last updated: 2007-01-02 09:37:06 UTC

LF11 Which body(ies) proposes electoral reforms?
b. Legislative Committee
c. Government

Comments: Bills may be introduced by the Federal Government, by the Bundesrat, or from the floor of the Bundestag.
Source: Constitution, Ch.7, Art. 76 (1)
Last updated: 2007-01-02 09:37:06 UTC

Media and Elections

ME01 Please provide information about the person completing the questionnaire.
a. Name and Title: Doreen Namislo
b. Job Title: Assistant Lecturer
c. Organisation: Office of the Federal Officer
d. Contact Address: Gustav-Stresemann-Ring 11, 65189 Wiesbaden, Germany
e. Telephone: + 49 (0611) 75 - 2339
f. Facsimile: + 49 (0611) 75 - 3964
g. Email: bundeswahlleiter@destatis.de

Last updated: 2005-04-13 09:01:15 UTC

ME02 Which of the following types of radio stations are present at a national level in your country?
a. Publicly owned

Comments: In Germany there is private radio only at the regional and local level; however, some of the stations can now be received nationwide via internet or satellite.
Last updated: 2005-04-11 12:50:37 UTC

ME03 Which of the following types of television stations are present at a national level in your country?
a. Publicly owned
c. Privately owned

Last updated: 2005-04-11 12:51:05 UTC

ME04 Which of the following types of daily and weekly newspapers are present at a national level in your country?
c. Privately owned
d. Owned by political parties

Last updated: 2005-04-11 12:51:20 UTC

ME05 Which of the following do you believe best describes the print media situation at the national level in your country?
d. No government newspaper: competition between two or more major private newspapers

Last updated: 2005-04-11 12:53:27 UTC

ME06 What proportion of the population can receive transmissions of the national level programming of private radio stations?
d. Not applicable: no private radio stations exist

Comments: See comment to question A.1.1.
Last updated: 2005-04-13 09:09:31 UTC

ME08 What proportion of the population can receive transmissions of the national level programming of private television stations?
a. Over 60%

Last updated: 2005-04-13 09:11:22 UTC

ME09 In your opinion, which of the following types of media in your country have a public reputation for being independent?
a. Public radio
b. Private radio
c. Public television
d. Private television
e. Print media

Comments: I understand the question as "being independent from government".
Last updated: 2005-04-11 13:01:25 UTC

ME11 What laws, if any, guarantee freedom of access to public information for representatives of the media?
a. a

Comments: Artikel 5 Grundgesetz §§ 1, 3, 4 Landespressegesetz (NRW, exemplarisch)
Source: Art. 5 Abs. 1 GG: Jeder hat das Recht, seine Meinung in Wort, Schrift und Bild frei zu äußern und zu verbreiten und sich aus allgemein zugänglichen Quellen ungehindert zu unterrichten. Die Pressefreiheit und die Freiheit der Berichterstattung durch Rundfunk und Film werden gewährleistet. Eine Zensur findet nicht statt. PresseG NRW: § 1 Freiheit der Presse. (1) Die Presse ist frei. Sie ist der freiheitlichen demokratischen Grundordnung verpflichtet. (2) Die Freiheit der Presse unterliegt nur den Beschränkungen, die durch das Grundgesetz unmittelbar und in seinem Rahmen durch dieses Gesetz zugelassen sind. (3) Sondermaßnahmen jeder Art, die die Pressefreiheit beeinträchtigen, sind verboten. (4) Berufsorganisationen der Presse mit Zwangsmitgliedschaft und eine mit hoheitlicher Gewalt ausgestattete Standesgerichtsbarkeit der Presse sind unzulässig. § 3 Öffentliche Aufgabe der Presse. Die Presse erfüllt eine öffentliche Aufgabe insbesondere dadurch, daß sie Nachrichten beschafft und verbreitet, Stellung nimmt, Kritik übt oder auf andere Weise an der Meinungsbildung mitwirkt. § 4 Informationsrecht der Presse. (1) Die Behörden sind verpflichtet, den Vertretern der Presse die der Erfüllung ihrer öffentlichen Aufgabe dienenden Auskünfte zu erteilen. (2) Ein Anspruch auf Auskunft besteht nicht, soweit 1. durch sie die sachgemäße Durchführung eines schwebenden Verfahrens vereitelt erschwert, verzögert oder gefährdet werden könnte oder 2. Vorschriften über die Geheimhaltung entgegenstehen oder 3. ein überwiegendes öffentliches oder ein schutzwürdiges privates Interesse verletzen würde oder 4. deren Umfang das zumutbare Maß überschreitet. (3) Allgemeine Anordnungen, die einer Behörde Auskünfte an die Presse überhaupt, an diejenige einer bestimmten Richtung oder an ein bestimmtes periodisches Druckwerk verbieten, sind unzulässig. (4) Der Verleger einer Zeitung oder Zeitschrift kann von den Behörden verlangen, daß ihm deren amtliche Bekanntmachungen nicht später als seinen Mitbewerbern zur Verwendung zugeleitet werden.
Last updated: 2005-04-11 13:03:59 UTC

ME13 What are the laws, if any, which govern the operations of the public broadcaster? Specify the date of the latest version (including latest amendments)
a. ARD-Staatsvertrag (1.4.2004); ZDF-Staatsvertrag (1.4.2004); Rundfunkstaatsvertrag (1.4.2004); DeutschlandRadio-Staatsvertrag (1.4.2004); Rundfunkgebührenstaatsvertrag (1.4.2004); Broadcasting/Medialaws of the Länder

Last updated: 2005-04-11 13:04:48 UTC

ME14 What proportion of the population can receive transmissions of the national level programming of the public television stations?
a. Over 60%

Last updated: 2005-04-11 13:05:52 UTC

ME15 What proportion of the population can receive transmissions of the national level programming of the national level programming of the public radio stations?
a. Over 60 %

Last updated: 2005-04-11 13:06:38 UTC

ME16 In your opinion, upon which types of media at national level in your country do citizens most rely as a source of information? Mark the most important source with 1, and the second most important source with 2:
d. Public television
g. Print media

Comments: 1: "Print media", 2: "Public television"
Source: Forsa-Institut (7. Dezember 1998, Ausgabe 50, Jg. 22)
Last updated: 2005-04-13 09:12:12 UTC

ME18 What are the laws, if any, that provide for the safeguards for editorial autonomy in relation to the public broadcaster(s)?
a. a

Comments: No specific laws.
Last updated: 2005-04-11 13:10:16 UTC

ME19 What are the laws, if any, which govern the granting of broadcasting licenses/frequencies to private broadcasters?
a. See reply to question A.7.1.

Last updated: 2005-04-13 09:16:15 UTC

ME20 Who grants licenses/frequencies to private broadcasters?
b. Independent regulator

Last updated: 2005-04-11 13:11:55 UTC

ME21 Who is allowed to hold broadcasting licenses?
b. Private companies
c. Non governmental organisations
d. Foreigners

Comments: d. Foreigners, with domicile in the EU.
Last updated: 2005-04-11 13:13:13 UTC

ME22 What are the legal conditions, if any, under which the activities of a media outlet may be suspended?
a. a

Comments: Broadcasting: - false statements when applying for a license - infringement of the licensing conditions - severe infringements of other provisions of the media law
Source: (cf. e.g. Art. 119, 120 Landesmediengesetz Nordrhein-Westfalen)
Last updated: 2005-04-11 13:14:19 UTC

ME23 Are any journalists currently imprisoned or facing criminal charges for exercising their profession?
b. No

Last updated: 2005-04-11 13:14:46 UTC

ME24 What legal instruments are used to regulate media coverage of elections?
a. Law
c. Voluntary agreement or self-regulation

Source: Art. 7 para 8; Art. 42 para 2 Rundfunkstaatsvertrag (State Broadcasting Treaty); Art 11 ZDF-State Treaty;for regional public broadcasting stations cf. broadcasting laws of the Länder … A: § 32 Abs. 2 BWahlG … C: Pressecodex, Richtlinie 1.2 – Wahlkampfveranstaltungen: Es entspricht journalistischer Fairness, dient der Informationsfreiheit der Bürger und wahrt die Chancengleichheit der demokratischen Parteien, wenn die Presse in ihrer Berichterstattung über Wahlkampfveranstaltungen auch Auffassungen mitteilt, die sie selbst nicht teilt.
Last updated: 2005-04-11 13:16:01 UTC

ME25 Which of the following bodies or agencies has a responsibility in the regulation of media coverage of elections?
b. Voluntary regulator (e.g. media council, journalists' ethics committee)

Last updated: 2005-04-11 13:18:59 UTC

ME26 What form does the responsibility, if any, of the EMB to regulate media coverage of elections take?
c. Placing limits on when the media may report about an election

Comments: C: Article 32 BWG, Article 4 EuWG
Source: Article 32 BWG rules: (1) During polling hours, no influence may be exerted on voters by word, sound, writing or image and no signatures may be collected in or around the building in which the polling station is located as well as directly in front of the entrance to the building. (2) The publication of results of surveys conducted among voters after they have cast their votes shall beinadmissible before the end of polling hours. By the Article 4 EuWG, the Article 32 BWG is valid for European Elections.
Last updated: 2005-04-11 13:23:02 UTC

ME27 Does the EMB monitor media coverage of elections?
b. No

Last updated: 2005-04-11 13:23:37 UTC

ME28 What form does the authority, if any, of the EMB to enforce remedies or sanctions against the media in case of breach of the rules on media coverage of elections take
c. Other (specify)

Comments: See question B.3.1. The sanction is regulated in Article 49a BWG: An administrative offence shall commit any person who contrary to the provisions of Article 32 (2), publishes the results of opinion polls of voters´ decisions after voting before the voting period has expired. A person may be punished with an administrative fine of up to fifty thousand Euro for committing an administrative offence within the meaning of Article 49a Paragraph (1), no. 2. Administrative authority within the meaning of Article 36 (1), Article 49a (1) no. 1 of the Administrative Offences Act shall be for administrative offences pursuant to Article 49a (1), no. 2, the Federal Returning Officer (EMB)
Last updated: 2005-04-13 09:55:41 UTC

ME29 Do political parties or candidates have a right to have their replies to inaccurate or misleading media coverage published promptly and free of charge?
a. Yes

Comments: The right of reply applies to each individual person or entity. Gegendarstellungsrecht in Landespressegesetzen
Source: § 11 Landespressegesetz (NRW): Gegendarstellungsanspruch. (1) Der verantwortliche Redakteur und der Verleger eines periodischen Druckwerks sind verpflichtet, eine Gegendarstellung der Person oder Stelle zum Abdruck zu bringen, die durch eine in dem Druckwerk aufgestellte Tatsachenbehauptung betroffen ist. Die Verpflichtung erstreckt sich auf alle Neben- oder Unterausgaben des Druckwerks, in denen die Tatsachenbehauptung erschienen ist.
Last updated: 2005-04-13 09:56:17 UTC

ME31 Have the media or journalists' organisations adopted a code of ethics specific to elections? Please send us a copy.
a. Yes

Comments: See question B.1.1., Pressekodex, Richtlinie 1.2
Last updated: 2005-04-13 09:59:09 UTC

ME32 If so, how well do you perceive this code of ethics to be respected?
b. Usually respected

Last updated: 2005-04-13 09:59:35 UTC

ME33 Which body, if any, is responsible for regulating free or paid access of political parties or candidates to the media during election campaigns.
b. Other (specify)

Comments: Broadcasting regulator.
Last updated: 2005-04-11 13:32:28 UTC

ME34 Which of the following types of radio stations provide political parties with free broadcast time for national election campaigns?
a. Publicly owned
c. Privately owned

Comments: There is no absolutely free broadcast time for political parties; they have to reimburse the cost-price of the advertisements.
Last updated: 2005-04-11 13:34:33 UTC

ME35 Which of the following types of television stations provide political parties with free broadcast time for national election campaigns?
a. Publicly owned
c. Privately owned

Comments: There is no absolutely free broadcast time for political parties; they have to reimburse the cost-price of the advertisements.
Last updated: 2005-04-13 10:01:35 UTC

ME36 Which of the following types of daily and weekly newspapers provide political parties with free printed advertisement space for national election campaigns?
e. None

Last updated: 2005-04-13 10:02:07 UTC

ME37 What are the criteria for allocating free broadcast time and/or free printed advertisement space to political parties?
c. Based on result of previous election

Last updated: 2005-04-11 13:46:31 UTC

ME38 What, if any, is the maximum amount that a political party is permitted to spend on paid advertising during a campaign period?
b. The law does not specify any limits on paid advertising (X)

Last updated: 2005-04-11 13:47:47 UTC

ME45 Which of the following types of daily and weekly newspapers provide individual candidates (legislative) with printed advertisement space for national election campaigns?
c. Privately owned
d. Owned by political parties

Last updated: 2005-04-13 10:08:22 UTC

ME50 What are the criteria for allocating free broadcast time and/or free printed advertisement space to presidential candidates?
h. Not applicable

Comments: No direct presidential elections.
Last updated: 2005-04-13 08:35:14 UTC

ME54 What are the criteria for allocating paid broadcast time and/or paid printed advertisement space to presidential candidates?
i. Not applicable

Comments: No direct presidential elections.
Last updated: 2005-04-13 11:24:01 UTC

ME55 What, if any, is the maximum amount that a presidential candidate is permitted to spend on paid advertising?

Comments: No direct presidential elections.
Last updated: 2005-04-13 08:36:54 UTC

ME56 What are the laws, if any, which govern the disclosure of campaign advertising expenditures by political parties and candidates?

Comments: 23 et seqq. PartG constitutes an obligation to public accounting. The expense statement must contain expenditures for election campaigns; Article 24 (5) no. 2c PartG.
Last updated: 2005-04-13 08:37:56 UTC

ME57 What, if any, is the maximum amount that a media outlet can charge parties/candidates for advertising during the campaign?

Comments: No direct presdiential elections.
Last updated: 2005-04-13 10:51:08 UTC

ME59 Are televised debates between candidates or party representatives normally conducted?
c. No

Comments: During the campaign of the elections for the Bundestag 2002 a televised debate between the sitting Federal Chancellor and his challenger was conducted for the first time.
Last updated: 2005-04-13 08:41:18 UTC

ME60 What legal requirements, if any, regulate the participation of candidates or party representatives in media debates?

Comments: The German law does not obligate the press and broadcasters to arrange media debates for parties and candidates. But if they arrange them both public and private press and broadcasters have to observe parties´ right of equal opportunity. This right is based on Article 21 (1) and Article 38 (1) of the Basic Constitutional Law and is regulated by Article 5 (1) PartG. Candidates´ right of equal opportunity is based on a basic principle of equal opportunity. The right of equal opportunity is graduated; Article 5 (1) PartG. The press and broadcasters are allowed to distinguish between parties and candidates depending on their importance.
Last updated: 2005-04-13 08:43:56 UTC

ME61 Which of the following information in reporting the results of opinion polls are required to be disclosed by law?
g. None

Last updated: 2005-04-13 08:44:43 UTC

ME62 What is the blackout period, if any, during which results of pre-election opinion polls may not be released to the public?
g. Not applicable

Comments: No legal regulations about such a blackout period.
Last updated: 2005-04-13 08:45:56 UTC

ME63 Where, if at all, may exit polls be carried out?
b. Outside the polling station

Last updated: 2005-04-13 08:46:30 UTC

ME64 If exit polls are permitted, when can the results be disseminated via the media?
b. After all polls close

Comments: The publication of results of surveys conducted among voters after they have cast their votes shall be inadmissible before the end of polling hours.
Source: Article 32 (2).
Last updated: 2005-04-13 08:47:41 UTC

ME65 When are the media, by law, allowed to report preliminary election results?
b. After all polls close, before official results are available

Last updated: 2005-04-13 08:48:31 UTC

ME66 Are the media allowed to project/predict winners before the final results are available?
a. Yes

Last updated: 2005-04-13 08:49:41 UTC

ME67 What resources does the EMB have for its work with the media?
a. A media department
b. A press officer

Last updated: 2005-04-13 08:51:17 UTC

ME68 Have staff responsible for media relations received training for this work?
a. Yes

Last updated: 2005-04-13 08:51:31 UTC

ME69 Which of the following has the EMB produced or organised?
b. Press releases
c. Press conferences/briefings
e. Web site

Last updated: 2005-04-13 08:52:03 UTC

ME70 Has the EMB provided or facilitated training for journalists in how the electoral process works?
b. No

Last updated: 2005-04-13 08:52:28 UTC

ME77 What steps does the EMB take to make sure that it is communicating its message to the media?
a. It consults the media about the usefulness of materials provided to them by the EMB.
d. It monitors the media coverage of its own activities.

Last updated: 2005-04-13 08:56:41 UTC

ME79 Overall, how effective do you judge the EMB’s ability to communicate through the media during election campaigns to be?
b. Quite effective

Last updated: 2005-04-13 08:57:21 UTC

Parties and Candidates

PC01 What are the registration requirements for political parties running for national elections (Chamber 1)?
a. Signature requirement (specify requirement)

Source: Federal Electoral Law, Ch.4, § 18 - 28
Last updated: 2007-01-02 10:06:40 UTC

PC02 What are the registration requirements for political parties running for national elections (Chamber 2)?
g. Not applicable

Comments: Senators are appointed by the State governments.
Source: Constitution, Ch.4, Art.51(1-3)
Last updated: 2007-01-02 10:06:40 UTC

PC03 What are the legal qualifications to become a candidate at legislative elections (Chamber 1)?
a. Age
b. Citizenship

Source: Federal Electoral Law, Ch.3, § 15 (1)
Last updated: 2007-01-02 10:06:40 UTC

PC04 What are the legal qualifications to become a candidate at legislative elections (Chamber 2)?
k. Not applicable

Comments: Senators are appointed by the State governments.
Source: Constitution, Ch.4, Art.51
Last updated: 2007-01-02 10:06:40 UTC

PC05 What are the legal qualifications for becoming a candidate at presidential elections?
k. Not applicable

Source: Law of the election of the federal president, Federal Law Gazette I 1959, p. 230
Last updated: 2007-01-02 10:06:40 UTC

PC06 What can disqualify a candidate at legislative elections?
o. Other

Comments: A person shall be ineligible to stand for election if he or she 1. is disqualified from voting under Article 13 of the Federal Electoral Law, 2. has been deprived by judicial decision of eligibility to hold public or political office, or 3. is a German as defined in Article 116 (1) of the Basic Law without possessing German citizenship and has attained this legal status by renouncing German citizenship under the Law of 22 February 1955 for the Regulation of Questions of Citizenship (Federal Law Gazette I, p. 65).
Source: Federal Electoral Law, Ch.3, § 15 (2)
Last updated: 2007-01-02 10:06:40 UTC

PC07 What can disqualify a candidate at presidential elections?
o. Not applicable

Source: Hermann Glaab, Deputy Federal Returning Officer, Germany, bundeswahlleiter(a)destatis.de
Last updated: Tue, 25 Jun 2002 10:31:12 GMT

PC08 Can independent candidates compete in presidential or legislative elections?
c. In legislative elections (Chamber 1)

Source: Federal Electoral Law, Ch.4, § 18
Last updated: 2007-01-02 10:06:40 UTC

PC09 If independent candidates can compete in legislative elections (Chamber 1), what are the registration requirements?
a. Signature requirement (specify)

Source: Federal Electoral Law, Ch.4, § 20 - 26
Last updated: 2007-01-02 10:06:40 UTC

PC10 If independent candidates can compete in legislative elections (Chamber 2), what are the registration requirements?
e. Not applicable

Source: Hermann Glaab, Deputy Federal Returning Officer, Germany, bundeswahlleiter(a)destatis.de
Last updated: Tue, 25 Jun 2002 10:33:17 GMT

PC11 If independent candidates can compete in presidential elections, what are the registration requirements?
e. Not Applicable

Source: Hermann Glaab, Deputy Federal Returning Officer, Germany, bundeswahlleiter(a)destatis.de
Last updated: Tue, 25 Jun 2002 10:33:53 GMT

PC12 Do political parties receive direct/indirect public funding?
b. Direct
c. Indirect

Comments: The parties shall receive funds as a contribution towards the funding of the duties generally incumbent upon them under the Basic Law. The allocation of state funds shall depend on the success a party achieves with the voters in European, Bundestag and Landtag elections, on the sum of its membership and deputy fees and on the amount of money it obtains from donations. (2) The maximum total volume of state funds which may be paid to all parties each year shall be 133 million euros (absolute upper limit). (3) Under the state partial funding program, the parties shall each year receive: 1. 0.70 euro for each valid vote cast for its list or 2. 0.70 euro for each valid vote cast for a party in a constituency or polling district whose list was not approved in a Land, and 3. 0.38 euro for each euro which it has obtained as bestowals (membership fee, deputy fee or rightfully obtained donation); in this context, only bestowals up to 3,300 euros per natural person shall be taken into account. Notwithstanding Numbers 1 and 2 above, the parties shall receive 0.85 euro for every vote they obtain up to four million valid votes.
Source: The Law on Political Parties (Party Law) Amended version of 31 January 1994 (Federal Law Gazette I, Page 149), last amended pursuant to Article 2 of the Law dated 22 December 2004 (Federal Law Gazette I, Page 3673), Ch. 4, § 18 ff
Last updated: 2007-01-02 10:06:40 UTC

PC13 If political parties receive direct/indirect public funding, when do they receive this?
c. As related to the election period and between elections

Comments: As related to the election period and between elections (The President of the German Bundestag shall fix the volume of state funds each eligible party is entitled to for the previous year (year of entitlement) by 15 February each year.)
Source: Party Law, Ch. 4, § 19a
Last updated: 2007-01-02 10:06:40 UTC

PC14 If political parties receive indirect public funding, identify the type of funding:
d. Other

Source: Doreen Namislo, Bundeswahlleiter (Federal Returning Office)
Last updated: 2007-01-02 10:06:40 UTC

PC15 What is the basis of the public funding?
b. Based on result of previous election
e. Other

Source: Party Law, Ch. 4, § 18
Last updated: 2007-01-02 10:06:40 UTC

PC16 If political parties receive public funding, what is the specified purpose?
c. Unspecified

Source: Hermann Glaab, Deputy Federal Returning Officer, Germany, bundeswahlleiter(a)destatis.de
Last updated: Tue, 25 Jun 2002 10:36:31 GMT

PC17 Are political parties entitled to private funding?
a. Yes

Comments: Parties are entitled to accept donations. Donations can be given in cash up to the amount of 1,000 euros.
Source: Party Law, Ch.5, § 25
Last updated: 2007-01-02 10:06:40 UTC

PC18 If political parties are entitled to private funding, for what period?
c. As related to the election period and between elections

Source: Party Law, Ch.5, § 25
Last updated: 2007-01-02 10:06:40 UTC

PC19 Which of the following party financing provisions are applicable?
a. Public disclosure of party contributions received
b. Public disclosure of party expenditure
d. Ceilings on how much money a party can raise
h. Publication or public access to contribution and / or expenditure reports

Source: Party Law, Ch.5, § 24 , 25
Last updated: 2007-01-02 10:06:40 UTC

PC20 Which of the following candidate financing provisions are applicable?
j. Not applicable

Source: Hermann Glaab, Deputy Federal Returning Officer, Germany, bundeswahlleiter(a)destatis.de
Last updated: Tue, 25 Jun 2002 10:37:45 GMT

PC21 Who is responsible for administering and enforcing party income/funding regulations at national level?
c. Government department

Source: Hermann Glaab, Deputy Federal Returning Officer, Germany, bundeswahlleiter(a)destatis.de
Last updated: Wed, 19 Jun 2002 22:01:02 GMT

Vote Counting

VC01 What are the characteristics of ballots used at national legislative elections (Chamber 1)?
a. Single ballot (all registered parties listed)
g. Different ballots used in different constituencies
l. No photos or logos, only party and/or candidate names

Source: Federal Electoral Law, Ch. 4, § 30
Last updated: 2007-01-02 10:13:29 UTC

VC02 What are the characteristics of ballots used at national legislative elections (Chamber 2)?
s. Not applicable

Source: Doreen Namislo, Bundeswahlleiter (Federal Returning Office)
Last updated: 2007-01-02 10:13:29 UTC

VC04 Following the close of the voting, where are the votes first sorted and counted?
a. At the polling stations

Source: Federal Electoral Law, Ch. 6, § 37 ff
Last updated: 2007-01-02 10:13:29 UTC

VC05 What procedures are used in the initial count?
a. Separate ballots for different elections
b. Preliminary count of all ballots in ballot box
c. Tally of voters who voted
d. Number of ballots in box reconciled against number of voters
h. Double tallying as voters are being called out
j. Sorted into piles according to individual party/candidate
k. Counted by machine
l. Counted by hand
m. Sorted by party list
t. Other

Source: Federal Electoral Law, Ch. 6, § 39
Last updated: 2007-01-02 10:13:29 UTC

VC06 Following the sorting and counting, to where are the results first transmitted for consolidation?
c. District level

Comments: c) From electoral district level to municipality to the Returning Officer to the National Returning Officer to Federal Returning Officer.
Source: Federal Electoral Regulation, Ch. 4, § 71
Last updated: 2007-01-02 10:13:29 UTC

VC07 At what levels are seats allocated?
c. Regional level (specify whether it is constituency/ province/ state/ department/other)

Comments: Elected applicant/national list candidates.
Source: Federal Electoral Law, Ch. 6, § 41
Last updated: 2007-01-02 10:13:29 UTC

VC08 How are the initial/preliminary polling results transmitted and communicated to the different levels?
b. By telephone
c. By fax
f. By computer
g. Internet

Comments: The fastest way (telephone or other electronic way).
Source: Federal Electoral Regulation, Ch. 4, § 71
Last updated: 2007-01-02 10:13:29 UTC

VC09 If the polling results are physically transported, what is transported?
a. Ballots
b. Unused and spoiled ballots
d. Voter rolls
f. Certificate of result

Source: Doreen Namislo, Bundeswahlleiter (Federal Returning Office)
Last updated: 2007-01-02 10:13:29 UTC

VC10 If the polling results are physically transported, what security measures are used?
d. Transported in boxes sealed with numbered seals
e. Accompanied by election officials

Source: Doreen Namislo, Bundeswahlleiter (Federal Returning Office)
Last updated: 2007-01-02 10:13:29 UTC

VC11 Under what conditions are ballots recounted?
f. Other

Comments: f) No legal regulation for recount.
Source: Doreen Namislo, Bundeswahlleiter (Federal Returning Office)
Last updated: 2007-01-02 10:13:29 UTC

VC12 If automatically recounted, what is the trigger?
e. Not applicable

Comments: Ballots are not automatically recounted.
Source: Hermann Glaab, Deputy Federal Returning Officer, Germany, bundeswahlleiter(a)destatis.de
Last updated: Wed, 19 Jun 2002 22:18:14 GMT

VC13 If ballots are recounted by request, who can make the request?
g. Not applicable

Source: Doreen Namislo, Bundeswahlleiter (Federal Returning Office)
Last updated: 2007-01-02 10:13:29 UTC

VC14 If recounted, who conducts the recount?
b. Regional Election Management body
c. Local Election Management body

Source: Hermann Glaab, Deputy Federal Returning Officer, Germany, bundeswahlleiter(a)destatis.de
Last updated: Wed, 19 Jun 2002 22:19:03 GMT

VC15 Are preliminary results announced?
a. Yes

Source: Federal Electoral Regulation, Ch. 4, § 71
Last updated: 2007-01-02 10:13:29 UTC

VC16 If preliminary results are announced, how long after the close of polls is this done?
a. hours: X

Comments: Immediately after statement of the result.
Source: Federal Electoral Regulation, Ch. 4, § 71
Last updated: 2007-01-02 10:13:29 UTC

VC17 Is there a legal requirement for the declaration of the officially certified results?
a. Yes

Comments:
Source: Source: Federal Electoral Law, Ch. 6, § 41, 42 Federal Electoral Regulation, Ch. 4, § 78, 79
Last updated: 2007-01-02 10:13:29 UTC

VC18 How long after the close of polls is the certified results publicly announced? (if there is no legal requirement enter the average time)
c. weeks:

Comments: c) Approximately 3 weeks.
Source: Hermann Glaab, Deputy Federal Returning Officer, Germany, bundeswahlleiter(a)destatis.de
Last updated: 2007-01-02 10:13:29 UTC

Voter Education

VE01 Who conducts voter education and information campaigns at the national elections (informing where, when and how to register and vote)?
b. Regional Electoral Management Bodies
c. Local/County Electoral Management Bodies

Source: Hermann Glaab, Deputy Federal Returning Officer, Germany, bundeswahlleiter(a)destatis.de
Last updated: Wed, 19 Jun 2002 21:46:29 GMT

VE02 At the national level, how often are voter education programs conducted?
b. Election time only

Last updated: Thu, 11 Apr 2002 18:00:37 GMT

VE03 Is there a national civic education campaign (rights and responsibilities of citizens)?
m. Not applicable

Last updated: Thu, 11 Apr 2002 18:00:55 GMT

VE04 What types of voter education activities were carried out at the most recent national elections?
a. Poster/ Billboard campaigns
f. Mail-outs
g. Internet

Last updated: Thu, 11 Apr 2002 18:01:25 GMT

VE05 What types of civic education activities were carried out at the most recent national elections?
a. Poster/ Billboard campaigns
f. Mail-outs
g. Internet

Last updated: Thu, 11 Apr 2002 18:02:06 GMT

VE06 Special voter education programs were developed at the most recent national elections for:
h. Not applicable

Comments: No special voter education program was developed at the most recent elections.
Source: Hermann Glaab, Deputy Federal Returning Officer, Germany, bundeswahlleiter(a)destatis.de
Last updated: Wed, 19 Jun 2002 21:48:07 GMT

Voting Operations

VO02 Is there a code of conduct for election officials?
a. Yes

Source: Hermann Glaab, Deputy Federal Returning Officer, Germany, bundeswahlleiter(a)destatis.de
Last updated: Wed, 19 Jun 2002 22:02:05 GMT

VO03 Where can electors vote?
b. At any polling station in the same voting district
f. By mail

Comments: b.)With a voter's card a voter can vote at any polling station in the constituency.
Source: Hermann Glaab, Deputy Federal Returning Officer, Germany, bundeswahlleiter(a)destatis.de
Last updated: Tue, 25 Jun 2002 10:39:46 GMT

VO04 Who can vote from outside the country?
b. Citizens residing outside the country
c. Citizens outside the country (including those on vacation)
d. Members of the armed forces
e. Students
f. Diplomatic staff

Source: Hermann Glaab, Deputy Federal Returning Officer, Germany, bundeswahlleiter(a)destatis.de
Last updated: Wed, 19 Jun 2002 22:07:43 GMT

VO05 If voting outside the country is permitted, at what places?
e. By mail

Source: Hermann Glaab, Deputy Federal Returning Officer, Germany, bundeswahlleiter(a)destatis.de
Last updated: Wed, 19 Jun 2002 22:08:13 GMT

VO06 Can people vote in advance of the designated national election day(s)?
b. Yes

Source: Hermann Glaab, Deputy Federal Returning Officer, Germany, bundeswahlleiter(a)destatis.de
Last updated: Tue, 25 Jun 2002 10:40:26 GMT

VO07 If electors can vote in advance of the designated national election day(s), how may they do so?
b. By mail
e. Other

Comments: e.) At the municipality authority.
Source: Hermann Glaab, Deputy Federal Returning Officer, Germany, bundeswahlleiter(a)destatis.de
Last updated: Wed, 19 Jun 2002 22:09:33 GMT

VO08 If electors can vote in advance of the designated national election day(s), specify who:
f. Other

Comments: f.) Under certain conditions, e.g. absence on the election day for important reason.
Source: Hermann Glaab, Deputy Federal Returning Officer, Germany, bundeswahlleiter(a)destatis.de
Last updated: Wed, 19 Jun 2002 22:11:11 GMT

VO09 Is there a maximum allowable voter capacity of a polling station for the national elections?
a. Yes

Last updated: Thu, 11 Apr 2002 18:19:01 GMT

VO10 Is there a maximum allowable voter capacity of a polling station for the national elections?
a. Yes, the maximum capacity is: 2500

Last updated: Wed, 15 May 2002 08:37:14 GMT

VO11 How do electors cast their votes?
a. By manually marking the ballot
b. By mechanical voting machine
d. By electronic voting machine

Last updated: Thu, 11 Apr 2002 18:20:28 GMT

VO12 How many staff are assigned to each polling station?
a. The smallest polling station: 5
b. The largest polling station: 9

Last updated: Thu, 11 Apr 2002 18:20:46 GMT

VO13 Approximately how many hours of training were provided to the presiding polling officer for the most recent national elections?

Comments: Sufficient information for answer is not present from the federal returning officer.
Last updated: Thu, 11 Apr 2002 18:22:01 GMT

VO14 Approximately how many hours of training were provided to the other polling officials for the most recent national elections?

Comments: Sufficient information for answer is not present from the federal returning officer.
Last updated: Thu, 11 Apr 2002 18:22:20 GMT

Voter Registration

VR01 What is the legal voting age in the national elections?
c. 18

Source: Constitution, Ch.3, Art.38(2)
Last updated: 2007-01-02 09:53:01 UTC

VR02 Beyond age, what other qualifications exist for registering to vote and voting in the national elections?
a. Citizenship

Comments:
Source: Federal Electoral Law, Ch.3, § 12 (1), 13
Last updated: 2007-01-02 09:53:01 UTC

VR03 What restrictions on registering to vote and voting exist in the country?
d. Mental disability
h. Other

Comments: d) Whoever due to an arrangement of the penal code is in a psychiatric hospital.(Penal code art. 63 in connection with art. 20.) d) Whoever due to an arrangement of the penal code is in a psychiatric hospital.(Penal code art. 63 in connection with art. 20.) h) Whoever in consequence of court decision does not possess the right to vote.
Source: Federal Electoral Law, Ch.3, § 13
Last updated: 2007-01-02 09:53:01 UTC

VR04 Which is the authority responsible for the registration of voters for national elections?
c. Local Government Authority

Source: Federal Electoral Law, Ch.4, § 17 (1)
Last updated: 2007-01-02 09:53:01 UTC

VR05 What is the registration method for national elections?
b. Voters register

Comments: Voters register (developed by register of residence)
Source: Federal Electoral Law, Ch.4, § 17 (1)
Last updated: 2007-01-02 09:53:01 UTC

VR06 How frequently is the voters register updated?
c. Periodically (or before each election)

Source: Federal Electoral Law, Ch.4, § 17
Last updated: 2007-01-02 09:53:01 UTC

VR07 What methods are used to compile and update the voters register?
d. Registration by mail
e. Appearance by voter at registration office
j. Other

Source: Federal Electoral Law, Ch.4, § 17; Federal Electoral Regulations, Ch.2, §§14, 16, 22, 23
Last updated: 2007-01-02 09:53:01 UTC

VR08 Is it compulsory to be on the voters register?
a. Yes

Comments: a) Based on civil register
Source: Federal Electoral Law, Ch.4, § 17; Federal Electoral Regulations, Ch.2, §§14, 16
Last updated: 2007-01-02 09:53:01 UTC

VR09 Approximately what percentage (on the basis of cost) of registration supplies and equipment are obtained or produced within the country?

Comments: Sufficient information for answer is not present from the federal returning officer. (Hermann Glaab)
Last updated: Thu, 11 Apr 2002 17:58:55 GMT

May 20, 2008 07:18 AM