What Explains German Länder Governments' Stances Towards Federalism?

This article investigates the divergent stances of German state governments (Länder) on federalism, focusing on their preferences for self-rule versus shared rule within Germany's federal system. By analyzing coalition agreements from the Länder, the study tests hypotheses related to financial capacity, party ideology, religious composition, and historical legacies, particularly the Prussian heritage. The findings indicate that financial strength is the most robust predictor of a state government's preference for decentralization, with wealthier states favoring greater autonomy, while the influence of political parties is not consistently significant. Additionally, the Prussian legacy shows some explanatory power, whereas religious affiliation has a less consistent effect. The study highlights a more instrumental, fiscally driven approach to federalism in Germany compared to ideologically motivated federalism debates observed in countries like the United States.