Germany's Foreign Policy

Merkel, Sarkozy in Freiburg Enlarge image Merkel, Sarkozy (© dpa/pa) According to Federal Foreign Minister Guido Westerwelle German foreign policy has been marked by continuity during the last few decades. At the same time it reflects the changing world around us. 

Today's German foreign policy has to be geared to three key guiding principles: Strengthening Europe as a model for cooperation and integration, advocating peace and disarmament and seizing the opportunities offered by globalization for the benefit of all. 

In the age of globalisation states, societies and economic areas are becoming increasingly interlinked. That has a definite impact on German foreign policy. Conflicts in other parts of the world now have a more direct impact on us here in Germany. However, the main aim of German foreign policy is still to maintain peace and security in the world.

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South African Deputy President Motlanthe with German Foreign Minister Westerwelle and Development Minister Niebel in Pretoria

Africa: Focal point of Germany's foreign policy

Germany's policy towards Africa is value-based; its principles are respect for human rights, democracy, and the rule of law and peaceful resolution of conflicts. Yet Germany also has clearly defined interests. As a major exporting nation we need a reliable and well-functioning world trade system, which cannot exist without peace, security and stability.

Germany's Africa policy

Europaflagge

Europe - A Political Success Story

After centuries of bloody conflict, the integration of states and their interests has defeated nationalism and brought Europe an unparalleled period of peace, prosperity and stability. That is why the completion of European integration is our top political objective.

Germany in the EU

Germany in the UN Security Council

On October 12, Germany was voted as a new member onto the United Nations Security Council, together with Portugal, India, Colombia and South Africa. Since January 1, 2011 Germany serves as a non-permanent member of the Security Council for a period of two years.

Germany in the UN Security Council

Foreign Policy

European Union Guidelines on Human Rights Defenders

Jestina Mukoko

Germany and the European Union are actively engaged in the protection of human rights defenders. The EU has drawn up guidelines to ensure that this protection is guaranteed in the long term.

European Union Guidelines on Human Rights Defenders

Germany's Peace Policy

UN Security Council (Archive)

German foreign policy is peace policy. In collaboration with its partners, Germany is active in the United Nations, NATO, the OSCE and other organizations, in pursuit of a fair, peaceful and stable international order. Within this policy, particular emphasis is placed on the prevention and resolution of crises as well as disarmament and non-proliferation. Germany, being the UN’s third-biggest financial contributor at present and a potential candidate for a permanent seat on the Security Council, has been elected as a non-permanent member on the Security Council for the 2011 2012 term.

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