Mind the Gap: Explaining unified Germany's Divided Party System

Abstract

Twenty years after the fall of the Berlin Wall, unified Germany is still confronted with significant political divides. Two distinct party systems have emerged and are now consolidated, and a narrowing of the gap between them is not in sight. Among other dimensions, the differences in party spaces and competition are more fragmented, more unstable and, most importantly, characterised by the enduring success of the post-Communist Left in the East, where the party is a major third player. Looking at the origins and causes of the divide, the relevance of specific historical legacies and the role of distinct political cultures and value cleavages are emphasised. These point to previously neglected explanatory frameworks. In addition, some parties act as agents that facilitate political resentments and reinforce cultural divisions. Finally, lessons in understanding and coming to terms with some persisting East–West divides in the European Union are discussed.