Germany Country Report

Germany is a developed and highly industrialized country located in Western Europe. It is the most populated country in the European Union and has the third-highest number of international migrants in the world. The government is a highly stable federal republic, and transfers of power occur peacefully. Germany has a robust democracy which contributes to stability and political legitimacy. However, democratic freedoms likewise allow expression of a wide range of ideologies, often in the form of passionate and occasionally violent demonstrations.

The primary threat to foreign travelers is from petty theft. There is growing concern over terrorism, particularly from the Islamic State (IS), which has claimed several attacks against civilians, including in Berlin; further attacks are possible. Germany's infrastructure is highly developed and technologically advanced, with safe and reliable transportation, advanced health care and reliable communication services throughout the country.

Criminal activity in Germany directed at foreigners most commonly consists of non-confrontational street crime, such as purse snatching and pickpocketing. Violent crime is rare, but it does occur. There is a latent terror threat, including from Islamist militants. IS has both threatened Germany and been involved in recent attacks in the country. Protests occur occasionally in city centers over various political and socio-economic grievances. The EU-wide migrant crisis has been a recent trigger for unrest, with both pro- and anti-migrant protests occurring. Rallies are typically peaceful.

There are no safety concerns over air travel.

Roads in Germany are generally in excellent condition, with the exception of some older, rural roads in the eastern parts of the country.

The ports in Germany are efficient and reliable.

Utilities are very good.

There are increasing concerns over the threat from cyber attacks, which can cause damage to the country's economy and public services.

Germany's climate is moderate with seasonal variations in temperature, including warmer summers and colder winters. Explosive remnants of war (ERW) from the Second World War are periodically found, especially in the country's western industrial regions. Earthquakes occur periodically, especially in the seismically active zone associated with the Rhine Rift Valley, but are usually low-level. Flooding can be a problem in low-lying areas following storms and heavy rains. Dangerous avalanches occur regularly in Germany's mountainous regions in winter.

Medical care is of excellent quality in Germany. Pharmacies are prevalent in major urban centers. Most ordinary prescription drugs are widely available. Tap water is safe to drink. Travelers' diarrhea is the most common ailment among travelers to Germany.

Germany is a federal multi-party representative democratic parliamentary republic. The Chancellor is the head of government, while the President is the head state. The Chancellor and cabinet together exercise executive power, while legislative power resides with the Bundestag (parliament). The judiciary is independent of the executive and the legislature. Presidential and parliamentary elections take place at most four years after the assembly of the Bundestag.

Coalitions featuring a cross-section of political parties are typically required to form the government. Government collapses are uncommon. State institutions are competent and effective and provide reliable services across the country.