Germania quo vadis? dynamics of change in German security policy

Abstract

This study analyzes the essence of FRG security and defense policy after reunification. The first section briefly explains the different theoretical approaches to cooperation of nation states. The second chapter describes German security policy during the Cold War and shows the force of continuity that Germany always preferred the security of NATO. The third chapter explains the German security policy after the Cold War til 1998 and the advent of the Red- Green coalition. Theoretically Germany had the opportunity after regaining total sovereignty to decide between NATO and EU, or even a unequely all-German security strategy. This development of the Kohl administration is then compared with the Schroeder cabinet of 1998-2005. The last chapter describes the strategic and operational capabilities of the German armed forces in order to demonstrate that a German-only path is an unrealistic option, and that Germany is dependent on a deep integration into NATO and the European Union (EU). Finally, the role of German society is investigated in order to determine its influence on the choice to pursue a more independent European security structure; that was not only the result of the Schroeder administration but a result of political demand of the German society as well.