This page sets out the English summaries of the research papers published by the Research Services. A link from the end of the summary will take you to the complete research paper in German.

Please note the disclaimer and copyright notice.

• UNESCO Convention on the Protection and Promotion of the Diversity of Cultural Expressions
  On 20 October 2005 the Unesco General Conference adopted the Convention on the Protection and Promotion of the Diversity of Cultural Expressions, an international normative instrument that will enter into force three months after its ratification by 30 States. The Unesco Convention sets out common rules, principles and points of reference for cultural diversity at global level.

  Publication of 12/07/2005
  
  

• Duration of electoral terms
  The Basic Law provides for a four-year electoral term; a discussion is currently underway on increasing the duration of electoral terms to five years. The text examines the conditions to be met in order for the electoral term to be extended and the pros and cons of such a change and makes comparisons with the situation in the Federal Länder and with other EU Member States.

  Publication of 12/05/2005