Germany is located in Western Europe and is one of the continent’s most influential political and economic powers. It shares borders with nine countries, including France, Poland, and the Netherlands, and has access to the North and Baltic Seas. With a land area of around 357,000 square kilometers, Germany is the seventh-largest country in Europe. As of 2025, it had a population of approximately 84,075,075 people (UN), making it the most populous country in the European Union. The capital and largest city is Berlin, followed by other major cities like Hamburg, Munich, and Frankfurt.
Germany is a federal parliamentary republic, consisting of 16 federal states (Bundesländer). The head of government is the Chancellor, while the President holds a largely ceremonial role. Since 2021, Chancellor Olaf Scholz has led the country. Germany has played a central role in the EU since its founding and is a key member of NATO, the G7, and the G20.
Economically, Germany is Europe’s largest economy and the world’s third-largest by nominal GDP in 2024, after the United States and China. It is renowned for its strong industrial base, particularly in the automotive, machinery, chemical, and electrical equipment sectors. Germany is also a global export powerhouse, with a strong trade surplus.
Religiously, Germany has a diverse landscape: Christianity is the largest religion, with roughly equal numbers of Catholics and Protestants, while a growing share of the population identifies as non-religious. Islam is the second-largest religion, mainly among immigrant communities. With a reputation for stability, innovation, and global leadership, Germany continues to be a cornerstone of both European and international affairs.
Federal Republic of Germany