How has Germany's economic growth and political landscape changed since 40 years ago?
Germany's GDP has grown from $945 billion in 1984 to over $4 trillion in 2023, making it the fourth-largest economy in the world.
The country's economic growth rate has averaged around 2% per year since 1984, with a brief recession in 2009 during the global financial crisis.
Germany's unemployment rate has decreased from 9.4% in 1984 to around 3.1% in 2023, making it one of the lowest in the EU.
The number of people employed in Germany has increased from 28 million in 1984 to over 44 million in 2023.
The German government has managed to reduce its debt-to-GDP ratio from 64% in 1984 to around 55% in 2023.
The DAX 40, Germany's main stock market index, has grown from a base value of 1,000 in 1987 to over 15,000 in 2023, with an average annual return of around 10%.
Germany has become one of the leading exporters in the world, with exports accounting for over 50% of its GDP.
The country has invested heavily in renewable energy, with renewable sources accounting for over 40% of its energy production in 2023.
Germany's automotive industry has grown significantly, with the country producing over 5 million cars in 2023, making it one of the world's largest car producers.
The country has a highly skilled workforce, with over 80% of its population holding at least a secondary education degree.
Germany has a strong social security system, with a comprehensive healthcare system, generous unemployment benefits, and a wide range of social services.
The country has a complex political system, with a federal parliament (Bundestag) and a federal government, as well as 16 states (Länder) with their own governments and parliaments.
Germany has a long tradition of coalition governments, with the current government being a coalition of the Christian Democratic Union (CDU), the Christian Social Union (CSU), and the Social Democratic Party (SPD).
The country has a strong tradition of trade unions, with over 6 million workers represented by unions, which has helped to maintain social peace and low levels of industrial conflict.
Germany has a highly developed infrastructure, with a comprehensive network of highways, railways, and airports, as well as a high-speed internet network.
The country has a strong focus on research and development, with over 3% of its GDP invested in R&D, making it one of the leading countries in terms of innovation.
Germany has a long tradition of apprenticeships, with over 50% of its secondary school students participating in apprenticeship programs.
The country has a highly developed vocational training system, with over 350 recognized vocational training occupations.
Germany has a strong tradition of social partnership, with close relationships between employers, trade unions, and government, which has helped to maintain social peace and low levels of industrial conflict.
The country has a strong commitment to European integration, with Germany being one of the founding members of the European Union and a strong advocate for a united Europe.