Elections

Citizens can participate in political decision-making at federal, state and municipal level by participating in elections and votes. The direct election of mayors and district administrators, as well as the introduction of cumulation and variegation in local elections, have further strengthened citizens' ability to exert influence.
The state elections, the referendums and referendums, referendums as well as the Bundestag and European elections are prepared by the Land returning officer and carried out with the support of the district returning officers as well as the cities and municipalities.

The general municipal elections, the direct elections of mayors and district administrators, the election of the foreigners' advisory councils as well as the citizens' petitions and referendums, on the other hand, are carried out under the sole responsibility of the cities, municipalities and districts because of the local self-government guaranteed by the constitution.

Information on ongoing election procedures can be found in the public announcements of the cities and municipalities. The local electoral offices will provide further information.