Abstract

Once again popular sovereignty is being discussed in Germany, now in two particular contexts: 1) the broadening of the West German Constitution — the Basic Law — into a constitution for a united Germany; and 2) the need to overcome the political parties' monopoly of politics. The two are related and appeal to popular sovereignty to attain the same goal: to criticize unresponsive government and promote political participation. Citizens had no opportunity to vote for or against unification in West or East Germany. They were not and will not be consulted concerning the new constitutional framework. Instead, the Basic Law has been gradually adapted to changing political conditions.