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Remembrance of the Victims of National Socialism

On Wednesday, 27 January 2010, the German Bundestag came together in remembrance of the victims of National Socialism. The Ceremony of Remembrance in the plenary chamber of the Reichstag Building in Berlin began at noon. Following an introductory speech by Professor Norbert Lammert, President of the Bundestag, speeches were held by the President of the State of Israel, Shimon Peres, and Polish historian Professor Feliks Tych.

Election for four years

The Bundestag is elected for four years. The CDU/CSU is the largest parliamentary group with 239 seats, followed by the SPD with 146 Members, the FDP with 93 Members, the Left Party (76 Members) and the Alliance 90/The Greens parliamentary group (68 Members).

Functions of the Bundestag

In addition to the election of the Federal Chancellor, the Bundestag’s most important functions are preparing and adopting legislation and scrutinising the work of the government. Each year, the Members of the Bundestag also discuss and adopt the federal budget.

The Bundestag eagle in the plenary chamber

Plenary and committees

In plenary sittings, Parliament deliberates and votes on laws and motions which fall within the competence of the Federation. The Bundestag currently has 22 permanent committees. In addition, it can take the decision to establish committees of inquiry or special committees.

Scrutiny of the Government

In exercising oversight over the Federal Government, Members have the right to request detailed information from it via written and oral questions. But special bodies such as committees of inquiry also serve to ensure scrutiny of the government.

Eagle of the federal government under a magnifying glass

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