Alliance 90 The Greens
Alliance 90/The Greens
Alliance 90/The Greens (German: Bündnis 90/Die Grünen) is a prominent green political party in Germany. The party, often referred to simply as the Greens (German: Grüne), was officially formed in 1993 following the merger between the Greens, established in West Germany in 1980, and Alliance 90, originating in East Germany in 1990.
Historical Background
The origins of the party are deeply rooted in the environmental movement and the political landscape of Germany following the reunification. The West German Greens emerged during a period of heightened environmental awareness and anti-nuclear activism, while Alliance 90 represented a coalition of civil rights groups in East Germany that gained prominence during the peaceful revolution of 1989.
Political Influence and Representation
Alliance 90/The Greens has developed a significant presence in German politics. The party is particularly influential in Baden-Württemberg, where Winfried Kretschmann, a member of the Greens, serves as the Minister-President. The Landtag of Baden-Württemberg is notable for being the only state legislature in Germany where the Greens are the largest party.
In addition, the Greens hold substantial power in other German state legislatures, being the second-largest party in Berlin, Hamburg, and Schleswig-Holstein.
European and International Role
Alliance 90/The Greens is a founding member of the European Green Party and plays a crucial role within the Greens/European Free Alliance (G/EFA) group in the European Parliament. The party is currently the largest within the G/EFA group, holding 21 Members of the European Parliament (MEPs). In the 2019 European election, the Greens became the second-largest party in Germany, securing 20.5% of the votes.
Policy and Ideology
The Greens advocate for a range of policies centered on environmental protection, climate change mitigation, social justice, and human rights. The party has been a vocal proponent of renewable energy and sustainable development, positioning itself as a leader in the global fight against climate change.