What powers are reserved for Germany’s federal government?

Under Germany’s federal system, the Basic Law grants the federal government specific, exclusive powers, while reserving other areas of authority for the states (Länder).

Powers specifically reserved to the federal government include:
* Foreign Affairs: Management of international relations and treaties.1
* Defense: Oversight of the Bundeswehr (Federal Armed Forces).12
* Citizenship: Matters affecting national status and nationality.1
* Trade and Customs: Regulation of international trade and customs duties.1
* Infrastructure: Responsibility for post and telecommunications.1

In areas where uniformity is essential, the federal government initiates or approves legislation. Additionally, the federal government maintains authority over internal security matters that transcend state boundaries, such as border control, air and rail security, and the coordination of national intelligence and criminal investigation agencies like the Bundeskriminalamt (BKA). While law enforcement is primarily a state responsibility, the federal government may commandeer state police units during national emergencies.2