Federalism is conducive to two important elements of the political process: competition and the search for compromise. This is a reason for the prosperity and political stability of the Federal Republic of Germany. Many citizens can involve themselves in the political life of the nation, whether at the federal or state level. With its area of 249,000 square kilometers and a population of 61 million, the Federal Republic of Germany is one political entity, but with its federal states it is also more. It represents unity in diversity. In addition to profiles of the states, this document includes materials about distribution of tasks, legislation of the federation and the states, administration--mainly the responsibility of the states, administration of justice--federal and state jurisdiction, financial burdens, distribution of taxes, the Bundesrat--the federative legislative body, and external representation. (BZ)