Learn: Leben in Deutschland

Question 15

Was verbietet das deutsche Grundgesetz?

Militärdienst
Zwangsarbeit
freie Berufswahl
Arbeit im Ausland

Question 15

What does the German Basic Law prohibit?

military service
forced labor
freedom of occupational choice
work abroad

The correct answer is 'Zwangsarbeit' (forced labor). The German Basic Law explicitly prohibits forced labor to protect individual freedom and rights.

What does the German Basic Law prohibit?
The German Basic Law prohibits forced labor. This is enshrined in Article 12 of the Basic Law, which ensures the right to freely choose one's profession and place of work.
What is the significance of Article 12 of the German Basic Law?
Article 12 of the German Basic Law guarantees freedom of occupation and prohibits forced labor, except for certain exceptions like compulsory military service or alternative civil service.
Are there any exceptions to the prohibition of forced labor in Germany?
Yes, exceptions include compulsory military service, alternative civil service, and certain legal obligations like mandatory public service.

Grundgesetz: Basic Law
Zwangsarbeit: forced labor
Militärdienst: military service
freie Berufswahl: freedom of occupational choice
Arbeit im Ausland: work abroad

Question 14

Meinungsfreiheit in Deutschland heißt zum Beispiel, dass ich …

Passanten auf der Straße beschimpfen darf.
meine Meinung im Internet äußern kann.
Nazi-, Hamas- oder Islamischer Staat-Symbole öffentlich tragen darf.
meine Meinung nur dann äußern darf, solange ich der Regierung nicht widerspreche.

Question 14

Freedom of speech in Germany means, for example, that I ...

can insult passersby on the street.
can express my opinion on the internet.
can publicly display Nazi, Hamas, or ISIS symbols.
can only express my opinion as long as I do not contradict the government.

The correct answer is 'meine Meinung im Internet äußern kann' (can express my opinion on the internet). While freedom of speech in Germany allows for the expression of opinions, it does not permit hate speech or the public display of extremist symbols.

What does freedom of speech mean in Germany?
In Germany, freedom of speech allows individuals to express their opinions publicly and privately, including online, as long as they do not incite violence or promote hate speech.
Are there any restrictions on freedom of speech in Germany?
Yes, freedom of speech in Germany is restricted in cases of hate speech, incitement to violence, and the promotion of terrorism or extremism.
Can I legally display extremist symbols in Germany?
No, displaying extremist symbols such as Nazi, Hamas, or ISIS symbols is illegal in Germany and is considered a criminal offense.

Meinungsfreiheit: freedom of speech
Passanten: passersby
beschimpfen: insult
Internet: internet
Symbole: symbols

Question 13

Im Parlament steht der Begriff 'Opposition' für …

die regierenden Parteien.
die Fraktion mit den meisten Abgeordneten.
alle Parteien, die bei der letzten Wahl die 5%-Hürde erreichen konnten.
alle Abgeordneten, die nicht zu der Regierungspartei/den Regierungsparteien gehören.

Question 13

In Parliament, the term 'Opposition' refers to ...

the ruling parties.
the faction with the most representatives.
all parties that passed the 5% threshold in the last election.
all representatives who do not belong to the ruling party/parties.

The correct answer is 'alle Abgeordneten, die nicht zu der Regierungspartei/den Regierungsparteien gehören' (all representatives who do not belong to the ruling party/parties). In a parliamentary system, the Opposition consists of those who are not part of the current government administration.

What does the term 'Opposition' refer to in a parliament?
In a parliament, 'Opposition' refers to all representatives and parties that are not part of the ruling coalition.
How is the Opposition different from the ruling parties?
The Opposition consists of all political groups and representatives who are not currently in power, unlike the ruling parties who hold governmental positions.
Do all political parties become part of the Opposition?
No, only those parties and representatives who are not part of the ruling coalition are considered part of the Opposition.

Opposition: Opposition
regierenden Parteien: ruling parties
Fraktion: faction
Abgeordneten: representatives
5%-Hürde: 5% threshold

Question 12

Eine Partei im Deutschen Bundestag will die Pressefreiheit abschaffen. Ist das möglich?

Ja, wenn mehr als die Hälfte der Abgeordneten im Bundestag dafür sind.
Ja, aber dazu müssen zwei Drittel der Abgeordneten im Bundestag dafür sein.
Nein, denn die Pressefreiheit ist ein Grundrecht. Sie kann nicht abgeschafft werden.
Nein, denn nur der Bundesrat kann die Pressefreiheit abschaffen.

Question 12

A party in the German Bundestag wants to abolish freedom of the press. Is that possible?

Yes, if more than half of the members of the Bundestag are in favor.
Yes, but two-thirds of the members of the Bundestag must be in favor.
No, because freedom of the press is a fundamental right. It cannot be abolished.
No, because only the Bundesrat can abolish freedom of the press.

The correct answer is 'Nein, denn die Pressefreiheit ist ein Grundrecht. Sie kann nicht abgeschafft werden' (No, because freedom of the press is a fundamental right. It cannot be abolished). Fundamental rights such as freedom of the press are enshrined in the German constitution and cannot be abolished or restricted by any legislative body alone.

Why can't freedom of the press be abolished in Germany?
Freedom of the press is a fundamental right protected by the German constitution (Grundgesetz). It cannot be abolished or restricted even by a majority in the Bundestag.
What is the significance of fundamental rights in Germany?
Fundamental rights in Germany are guaranteed by the constitution and have a special legal status. They provide essential protections for individual freedoms and cannot be overridden by legislative actions.
Can any constitutional right be changed by a simple majority in the Bundestag?
No, changes to constitutional rights require a two-thirds majority in both the Bundestag and the Bundesrat, ensuring a broad consensus for any modifications.

Pressefreiheit: freedom of the press
Grundrecht: fundamental right
Bundestag: Federal Diet (Parliament)
Bundesrat: Federal Council
abschaffen: to abolish

Question 11

Wie wird die Verfassung der Bundesrepublik Deutschland genannt?

Grundgesetz
Bundesverfassung
Gesetzbuch
Verfassungsvertrag

Question 11

What is the name of the constitution of the Federal Republic of Germany?

Basic Law
Federal Constitution
Code of Laws
Constitutional Contract

The correct answer is 'Grundgesetz' (Basic Law). The constitution of the Federal Republic of Germany is called the Basic Law, which serves as the fundamental legal framework for the country's democratic system and protection of human rights.

What is the Basic Law of Germany?
The Basic Law (Grundgesetz) is the constitution of Germany. It serves as the fundamental legal document outlining the structure of the German government and the rights of its citizens.
Why is the German constitution called the Basic Law?
The term 'Basic Law' was used to emphasize that the document was a provisional constitution until Germany could be unified. It was intended to be a temporary framework until a formal constitution could be established.
How is the Basic Law different from a traditional constitution?
The Basic Law was initially intended as a temporary measure and was explicitly designed to address the needs of post-World War II Germany, focusing on democratic principles and human rights, with the aim of preventing future totalitarianism.

Grundgesetz: Basic Law
Verfassung: constitution
Bundesverfassung: Federal Constitution
Gesetzbuch: Code of Laws
Verfassungsvertrag: Constitutional Contract

Question 10

Was ist mit dem deutschen Grundgesetz vereinbar?

die Prügelstrafe
die Folter
die Todesstrafe
die Geldstrafe

Question 10

What is compatible with the German Basic Law?

corporal punishment
torture
death penalty
fine

The correct answer is 'die Geldstrafe' (fine). The German Basic Law permits fines as a legal form of punishment but prohibits corporal punishment, torture, and the death penalty, all of which are considered violations of human rights.

What forms of punishment are prohibited by the German Basic Law?
The German Basic Law prohibits corporal punishment, torture, and the death penalty. Only fines are permissible forms of punishment within the legal system.
Why is the death penalty not allowed in Germany?
The death penalty is prohibited by the German Basic Law as part of its commitment to human rights and dignity. This prohibition reflects Germany's stance against capital punishment and its belief in the right to life.
How does the German Basic Law protect individuals from torture?
The German Basic Law explicitly forbids torture and cruel, inhumane, or degrading treatment. This reflects Germany's commitment to protecting human rights and upholding the dignity of every individual.

Prügelstrafe: corporal punishment
Folter: torture
Todesstrafe: death penalty
Geldstrafe: fine

Question 9

Welches Grundrecht gilt in Deutschland nur für Ausländerinnen/ Ausländer? Das Grundrecht auf …

Schutz der Familie
Menschenwürde
Asyl
Meinungsfreiheit

Question 9

Which fundamental right in Germany applies only to foreigners? The right to ...

protection of the family
dignity
asylum
freedom of speech

The correct answer is 'Asyl' (asylum). The right to asylum is a specific legal protection in Germany that is granted only to foreigners seeking refuge from persecution. Other rights like protection of the family, dignity, and freedom of speech apply to both citizens and foreigners.

What is the asylum right in Germany?
The right to asylum in Germany is a specific legal protection granted to individuals who seek refuge from persecution or serious harm in their home countries. This right is enshrined in the German Basic Law and applies to foreigners.
Can German citizens apply for asylum?
No, asylum rights in Germany are specifically for foreigners who are seeking protection from persecution. German citizens are not eligible to apply for asylum.
How does Germany handle asylum applications?
Germany processes asylum applications through a detailed procedure managed by the Federal Office for Migration and Refugees (BAMF). This involves evaluating the applicant's claim, conducting interviews, and making a determination on whether they qualify for protection.

Schutz der Familie: protection of the family
Menschenwürde: dignity
Asyl: asylum
Meinungsfreiheit: freedom of speech

Question 8

Was steht nicht im Grundgesetz von Deutschland?

Die Würde des Menschen ist unantastbar.
Alle sollen gleich viel Geld haben.
Jeder Mensch darf seine Meinung sagen.
Alle sind vor dem Gesetz gleich.

Question 8

What is not included in the Basic Law of Germany?

Human dignity is inviolable.
Everyone should have the same amount of money.
Everyone is allowed to express their opinion.
Everyone is equal before the law.

The correct answer is 'Alle sollen gleich viel Geld haben.' (Everyone should have the same amount of money). The German Basic Law does not guarantee equal wealth distribution; instead, it protects human dignity, freedom of opinion, and equal treatment before the law.

What does the German Basic Law say about human dignity?
The German Basic Law states that human dignity is inviolable. This means that the dignity of every person must be respected and protected.
Does the German Basic Law guarantee equal treatment before the law?
Yes, the German Basic Law guarantees that all individuals are equal before the law. This principle ensures that everyone is treated fairly and without discrimination.
Can people express their opinions freely in Germany?
Yes, the German Basic Law guarantees the freedom of opinion. This means that everyone has the right to express their opinions freely, within the limits prescribed by law.

Würde des Menschen: human dignity
unantastbar: inviolable
Meinung: opinion
Gesetz: law

Question 7

Welches Recht gehört zu den Grundrechten, die nach der deutschen Verfassung garantiert werden? Das Recht auf …

Glaubens - und Gewissensfreiheit
Unterhaltung
Arbeit
Wohnung

Question 7

Which right is part of the fundamental rights guaranteed by the German constitution? The right to ...

freedom of belief and conscience
entertainment
work
housing

The correct answer is 'Glaubens - und Gewissensfreiheit' (freedom of belief and conscience). This right is guaranteed by the German constitution as part of the fundamental rights, while entertainment, work, and housing are not specifically guaranteed in the same way.

What does the German constitution say about freedom of belief and conscience?
The German constitution guarantees freedom of belief and conscience, meaning that everyone has the right to hold and express their own beliefs and conscience without interference.
Is the right to work guaranteed by the German constitution?
While the German constitution does not explicitly guarantee the right to work, it does ensure the protection of individual freedoms and rights that indirectly support the right to work.
Are there any rights related to housing in the German constitution?
The German constitution does not explicitly guarantee the right to housing, although it ensures that everyone has the right to an adequate standard of living and protection against arbitrary eviction.

Glaubens - und Gewissensfreiheit: freedom of belief and conscience
Unterhaltung: entertainment
Arbeit: work
Wohnung: housing

Question 6

Wie heißt die deutsche Verfassung?

Volksgesetz
Bundesgesetz
Deutsches Gesetz
Grundgesetz

Question 6

What is the name of the German constitution?

People's Law
Federal Law
German Law
Basic Law

The correct answer is 'Grundgesetz' (Basic Law). This is the official name of the German constitution, which serves as the foundation of the legal and political system in Germany.

What is the German constitution commonly referred to as?
The German constitution is commonly referred to as the 'Grundgesetz,' which translates to 'Basic Law' in English.
Why is the German constitution called 'Grundgesetz'?
The term 'Grundgesetz' was chosen to emphasize that it was intended as a provisional constitution for the time being, but it has become the permanent constitution of Germany.
When was the 'Grundgesetz' enacted?
The 'Grundgesetz' was enacted on May 23, 1949, and served as the constitution of West Germany until the reunification of Germany in 1990.

Grundgesetz: Basic Law
Volksgesetz: People's Law
Bundesgesetz: Federal Law
Deutsches Gesetz: German Law

Question 5

Wahlen in Deutschland sind frei. Was bedeutet das?

Man darf Geld annehmen, wenn man dafür eine bestimmte Kandidatin/einen
Nur Personen, die noch nie im Gefängnis waren, dürfen wählen.
Die Wählerin/der Wähler darf bei der Wahl weder beeinflusst noch zu einer bestimmten Stimmabgabe gezwungen werden und keine Nachteile durch die Wahl haben.
Alle wahlberechtigten Personen müssen wählen.

Question 5

Elections in Germany are free. What does that mean?

One can accept money if they support a specific candidate
Only people who have never been in prison are allowed to vote
The voter must not be influenced or coerced into a specific vote and should not face any disadvantages due to voting
All eligible voters must vote

The correct answer is 'Die Wählerin/der Wähler darf bei der Wahl weder beeinflusst noch zu einer bestimmten Stimmabgabe gezwungen werden und keine Nachteile durch die Wahl haben.' This means that in Germany, elections are free, meaning that voters must not be influenced or coerced and should not face any disadvantages due to their vote.

What does it mean for elections to be 'free' in Germany?
In Germany, 'free' elections mean that voters must not be influenced or coerced into voting a certain way and should not suffer any disadvantages as a result of their voting choice.
Are there penalties for not voting in Germany?
No, there are no penalties for not voting in Germany. Voting is not compulsory, and the system is designed to ensure that votes are cast freely and without coercion.
Can voters be influenced or pressured in the German election process?
No, the election process in Germany ensures that voters are not influenced or pressured into making their choices. The system is designed to protect the integrity and freedom of the voting process.

Wahlen: elections
frei: free
beeinflusst: influenced
Stimmabgabe: voting
Nachteile: disadvantages

Question 4

Welches Recht gehört zu den Grundrechten in Deutschland?

Waffenbesitz
Faustrecht
Meinungsfreiheit
Selbstjustiz

Question 4

Which right is included in the fundamental rights in Germany?

Gun ownership
Right of the strongest
Freedom of expression
Vigilante justice

The correct answer is 'Meinungsfreiheit' (Freedom of expression). In Germany, this right is protected as a fundamental right, allowing individuals to express their opinions freely without undue interference.

What are some examples of basic rights in Germany?
Basic rights in Germany include freedom of expression, freedom of assembly, and protection of personal data. These rights are guaranteed by the German Constitution, known as the Grundgesetz.
Is gun ownership a fundamental right in Germany?
No, gun ownership is not a fundamental right in Germany. It is regulated by law and requires a license. Fundamental rights are focused on personal freedoms and protection from state abuse.
What is meant by 'freedom of expression' in Germany?
Freedom of expression in Germany means that individuals have the right to express their opinions publicly and privately without fear of censorship or punishment, as long as it does not infringe on other laws, such as those protecting against hate speech.

Waffenbesitz: gun ownership
Faustrecht: right of the strongest
Meinungsfreiheit: freedom of expression
Selbstjustiz: vigilante justice

Question 3

Deutschland ist ein Rechtsstaat. Was ist damit gemeint?

Alle Einwohnerinnen/Einwohner und der Staat müssen sich an die Gesetze halten.
Der Staat muss sich nicht an die Gesetze halten.
Nur Deutsche müssen die Gesetze befolgen.
Die Gerichte machen die Gesetze.

Question 3

Germany is a rule of law state. What does that mean?

All residents and the state must adhere to the laws
The state does not have to follow the laws
Only Germans must follow the laws
The courts make the laws

The correct answer is 'Alle Einwohnerinnen/Einwohner und der Staat müssen sich an die Gesetze' (All residents and the state must adhere to the laws). In a rule of law state like Germany, everyone, including the state, is subject to the law, ensuring that no one is above it.

What does it mean for a country to be a 'rule of law' state?
Being a 'rule of law' state means that all actions by government entities and individuals are governed by laws that are publicly known and applied consistently. It ensures that the government itself is also bound by the law and subject to judicial review.
How does the rule of law affect government actions?
The rule of law requires that government actions be legally justified and conducted according to established laws. This prevents arbitrary actions and ensures that the government is accountable to the law.
Do laws apply to everyone in a rule of law state?
Yes, in a rule of law state, laws apply equally to all individuals and entities, including government officials. This ensures fairness and prevents abuse of power.

Rechtsstaat: rule of law state
Einwohnerinnen/Einwohner: residents
Gesetze: laws
Staat: state
Gerichte: courts

Question 2

In Deutschland können Eltern bis zum 14. Lebensjahr ihres Kindes entscheiden, ob es in der Schule am …

Geschichtsunterricht teilnimmt.
Religionsunterricht teilnimmt.
Politikunterricht teilnimmt.
Sprachunterricht teilnimmt.

Question 2

In Germany, parents can decide until their child is 14 years old whether they participate in religious education at school. What is this about?

history classes
religious classes
politics classes
language classes

The correct answer is 'Religionsunterricht teilnimmt' (religious classes). In Germany, parents can decide whether their child participates in religious education classes at school up until the child turns 14 years old.

What does parental choice in education mean in Germany?
In Germany, parents have the right to decide whether their child will attend religious education classes in school until the child reaches the age of 14. This reflects the importance of parental involvement in educational and religious decisions.
Can parents choose not to have their child attend religious classes?
Yes, parents can opt out of religious education classes for their child. This choice is available until the child turns 14, after which the child may make their own decision regarding participation.
Are there other subjects in which parents cannot choose for their child to opt-out?
Parental choice specifically applies to religious education classes. For other subjects such as history, politics, or language classes, participation is typically mandatory as part of the general curriculum.

Religionsunterricht: religious education
Teilnahme: participation
Geschichtsunterricht: history classes
Politikunterricht: politics classes
Sprachunterricht: language classes

Question 1

In Deutschland dürfen Menschen offen etwas gegen die Regierung sagen, weil …

hier Religionsfreiheit gilt.
die Menschen Steuern zahlen.
die Menschen das Wahlrecht haben.
hier Meinungsfreiheit gilt.

Question 1

In Germany, people are allowed to openly criticize the government because …

religious freedom applies here.
people pay taxes.
people have the right to vote.
freedom of speech applies here.

The correct answer is 'Meinungsfreiheit gilt' (freedom of speech applies here). In Germany, people are allowed to openly express their opinions and criticisms against the government due to the protection of freedom of speech enshrined in the German Constitution.

What is the significance of freedom of speech in Germany?
Freedom of speech in Germany allows individuals to openly express their opinions and criticisms, including those against the government, without fear of censorship or reprisal. This principle is enshrined in the German Constitution and is a cornerstone of democratic society.
Can people in Germany criticize the government publicly?
Yes, people in Germany can publicly criticize the government. This is protected under the right to freedom of speech, which ensures that individuals can express their views openly, including dissenting opinions.
What other rights support public criticism in Germany?
In addition to freedom of speech, other rights such as the right to freedom of assembly and the right to participate in democratic processes also support public criticism. These rights collectively ensure that individuals can express their opinions and engage in political discourse.

Meinungsfreiheit: freedom of speech
Religionsfreiheit: freedom of religion
Wahlrecht: right to vote
Steuern: taxes