The Länder, the Federation, and Europe

The Lander are members of a supreme state that is itself a member of the European Union. Such a constellation does not make democratic governance any easier. It again points to the tension between diversity and unity inherent in the federal state. This chapter asks how unity in German federalism can be established under the conditions of European integration. The presentation is limited to the participation of the Lander in the Bundesrat (Federal Council) and to other types of policy coordination between the Lander, and between the Lander and the federal government. Finally, the role of the Lander in the European Union is outlined.