Länder

In German, "Länder" is the plural form of "Land." "Land" has several meanings, but in the context of "Länder," it refers to a federal state or constituent state within a federal republic. These states possess a degree of autonomy and self-governance.

Specifically, the term "Länder" is most commonly used to refer to the sixteen states that make up the Federal Republic of Germany (Bundesrepublik Deutschland). Each Land has its own constitution, parliament, and government, and is responsible for various aspects of governance, including education, law enforcement, and cultural affairs. While the federal government holds power over national defense, foreign policy, and currency, the Länder maintain significant power and influence within the German political system.

The division of Germany into Länder is rooted in historical and political considerations and serves to balance national unity with regional diversity. The specific powers and responsibilities of the Länder are defined by the German constitution, the Grundgesetz. The concept of Länder, as a form of subnational division with significant self-governance, exists in other federal states as well, although they may not be referred to by the same name.