Question 12 · Federal question
A party in the German Bundestag wants to abolish freedom of the press. Is this possible?
German original (as asked in the real test)
Eine Partei im Deutschen Bundestag will die Pressefreiheit abschaffen. Ist das möglich?
- A Ja, wenn mehr als die Hälfte der Abgeordneten im Bundestag dafür sind.
- B Ja, aber dazu müssen zwei Drittel der Abgeordneten im Bundestag dafür sein.
- C Nein, denn die Pressefreiheit ist ein Grundrecht. Sie kann nicht abgeschafft werden. ✓ Correct answer
- D Nein, denn nur der Bundesrat kann die Pressefreiheit abschaffen.
Translation
A party in the German Bundestag wants to abolish freedom of the press. Is this possible?
- A Yes, if more than half of the members of the Bundestag are in favor.
- B Yes, but two-thirds of the members of the Bundestag must be in favor.
- C No, because freedom of the press is a fundamental right. It cannot be abolished. ✓ Correct answer
- D No, because only the Bundesrat can abolish freedom of the press.
Explanation
Freedom of the press is a fundamental right guaranteed by the German Basic Law (Art. 5). While it can be limited by general laws under strict conditions, it cannot be abolished. Even constitutional amendments cannot negate the core of fundamental rights and the constitutional order.
Tips
- Look for the keyword "Grundrecht"; fundamental rights have special protection.
- Recall that changes to the constitution require two-thirds majorities in Bundestag and Bundesrat, but the core of the constitutional order and fundamental rights cannot be abolished (eternity clause principles).
- Eliminate answers suggesting a single body (e.g., only Bundesrat) can abolish rights—this is incorrect.
- Be wary of options focusing only on voting thresholds; procedural majorities do not allow removal of protected rights.
Practice in the app
