109. How often are elections to the Bundestag normally held in Germany?

Answer options

1. every three years
2. every four years
3. every five years
4. every six years

Explanation

Under Article 39(1) of the Basic Law, the Bundestag is elected for four years; the word “normally” indicates that early elections are possible. Dissolution may occur under Article 63(4) sentence 3 (failure to elect a Federal Chancellor) or under Article 68 following a failed vote of confidence, with the Federal President deciding upon the Federal Chancellor’s proposal. This design combines fixed terms with constitutional flexibility and promotes governmental stability, further reinforced by the constructive vote of no confidence (Article 67). Historically, the Basic Law thus avoids the instability of the Weimar Republic, where frequent dissolutions of the Reichstag impeded stable governance.