Country Profile: Germany

Germany, located in Central Europe, is the largest economy on the continent and the second most populous nation, following Russia. It plays a pivotal role in European political, economic, and defense organizations, having emerged from the turmoil of two world wars and the division of the Cold War era. The reunification in 1990 marked a significant milestone in its history, paving the way for extensive economic development and integration into the European Union. Germany's governance is structured as a federal parliamentary republic, which supports a diverse and dynamic population.

Geography

Germany is strategically situated in Central Europe, bordered by the Baltic Sea and the North Sea, with land borders shared with nine countries. The country covers a total area of 357,022 sq km and features diverse terrain that includes lowlands to the north, uplands in the center, and the majestic Bavarian Alps in the south. Germany's climate is temperate and marine, characterized by cool, cloudy, wet winters and summers.

3,694 km of land boundaries with neighboring countries
2,389 km of coastline along the North Sea and Baltic Sea
Highest point: Zugspitze at 2,963 m
Major rivers include the Danube, Rhine, and Elbe

People and Society

Germany has a population of approximately 84.1 million people, making it the second most populous country in Europe. The society is diverse, with various ethnic groups, including the predominant Germans, Turks, and Ukrainians. The country has a rich cultural tapestry, with a high level of urbanization, as approximately 77.8% of the population resides in urban areas.

46.8 years is the median age of the population
Life expectancy at birth is 81.9 years
3.7% of the population identifies as Muslim
24.8% Roman Catholic and 22.6% Protestant

Economy

Germany boasts a leading export-driven economy, characterized by significant contributions from the automotive, chemical, and engineering sectors. The GDP is estimated to be $5.247 trillion in 2024, with a real GDP per capita of $62,800. Despite a highly skilled labor force of 43.772 million, the country faces challenges such as a shrinking working-age population and economic growth currently stalled by an energy crisis.

Unemployment rate at 3.5% for 2024
14.8% of the population lives below the poverty line
25.8% of GDP is generated from the industrial sector
Exports valued at $1.949 trillion in 2024

Government

Germany is a federal parliamentary republic, with Berlin serving as the capital. The government structure is characterized by a bicameral legislature consisting of the Bundestag (lower) and Bundesrat (upper), which work collaboratively to enact laws. The current president is Frank-Walter Steinmeier, with Friedrich Merz serving as the Chancellor.

16 states (Länder) within the federation
Citizens can vote at 18 years of age
Recent elections: presidential in 2022 and chancellor in 2025
Germany has a civil law system

Military and Security

The Bundeswehr (Federal Armed Forces) is responsible for Germany's defense and includes the army, navy, and air force. Military expenditures are projected to be 2% of GDP in 2024. The country plays an active role in NATO and participates in various international security missions.

Approximately 185,000 active-duty personnel
Contributed up to 1,700 troops in Lithuania (NATO) as of 2025
Military service is voluntary for ages 17-23
Maintains a significant arms export capability

Energy

Germany's energy sector is characterized by a strong focus on renewable sources, with wind and solar energy constituting significant portions of its energy mix. The country has made strides towards electrification, with 100% access to electricity as of 2022.

Total electricity consumption estimated at 519.691 billion kWh for 2023
Installed generating capacity is 275.658 million kW
49% of electricity comes from fossil fuels
Coal production reached 109.741 million metric tons in 2023

Environment

Germany faces several environmental challenges, including air pollution from industrial activities and water pollution from waste. The country is a participant in numerous international environmental agreements and is focused on sustainability efforts.

32.8% of the land is forested
49.8% of municipal solid waste recycled in 2022
Carbon dioxide emissions total 600.192 million metric tonnes for 2023
Engaged in multiple international agreements addressing climate change and biodiversity

Transportation

Germany has a well-developed transportation network that includes extensive railways, highways, and ports. The country’s civil aviation infrastructure is robust, with plans to expand further.

39,379 km of railways, with 20,942 km electrified
Total of 840 airports projected by 2025
595 vessels in the merchant marine fleet
Active development of a commercial offshore launch platform for space initiatives

Communications

Germany boasts a highly connected population, with a significant number of mobile and fixed-line telephone subscriptions. The internet penetration rate stands at approximately 94%, making it one of the most digitally connected countries in the world.

105 million mobile cellular subscriptions
38.8 million fixed-line subscriptions as of 2023
Over 90% of households equipped with cable or satellite TV
Broad internet access facilitated by a strong digital infrastructure

Key Metrics

Metric	Value	Note
Population	84,119,100 (2024 est.)
Area	357,022 sq km
GDP (PPP)	$5.247 trillion (2024 est.)
Unemployment Rate	3.5% (2024 est.)
Life Expectancy	81.9 years (2024 est.)
Birth Rate	8.9 births/1,000 population (2024 est.)
Energy Consumption	120.457 million Btu/person (2023 est.)
Average Household Expenditure on Food	11.6% (2023 est.)
Carbon Dioxide Emissions	600.192 million metric tonnes (2023 est.)
Electricity Access	100% (2022 est.)