Abgeordnetenhaus

Abgeordnetenhaus, meaning House of Representatives, is the unicameral legislature of the German city-state of Berlin. As the state parliament, it is responsible for making laws for Berlin, approving the state budget, and exercising political oversight of the executive, the Senate of Berlin. It also elects the Governing Mayor and participates in formulating the city’s policy direction.

Members are elected for five-year terms through a mixed-member proportional representation system. Voters cast a direct vote for individual candidates in constituencies and a second vote for a political party. Seats are allocated to reflect party vote shares, with direct mandates filling some seats and list seats ensuring overall proportionality. A five-percent threshold generally applies for party representation, though there are provisions for direct mandates through constituency wins.

The Abgeordnetenhaus operates under the Berlin Constitution and serves as the central authority for legislative activity in the city-state. It meets to debate and pass laws, scrutinize the government’s actions, and oversee public administration and policy implementation. The chamber’s work is organized through committees and plenary sessions, with members representing the political parties that secure seats.

History: The concept of a representative assembly for Berlin has roots in the 19th century, but the modern Abgeordnetenhaus was established in the wake of German reunification, with its contemporary framework created by the Berlin Constitution of 1990. Since then, it has served as the legislative body governing Berlin within the Federal Republic of Germany.