The logos of the strongest parties in the last elections to the national parliaments.

The Elmau G7 meeting strayed from its intended aim of problem solving. Wasn’t the aim of this year’s meeting to demonstrate their unity? By SARAH PODSZUCK

If borders are sealed off, refugees can only reach their destination with the help of smugglers. If Pakistan or Lebanon were to close their borders, it would have disastrous consequences. A commentary by SEBASTIAN BLATZHEIM

…, outside of working hours and as quiet as possible please. In Germany there is a lot of grumbling going on. However, until the Germans go on strike and stand up for their rights... which could take a while – nothing will change. A commentary by TIM EHLERS

Two days ago, 700 people died in the Mediterranean. Still nothing will change. By the EDITORIAL TEAM

Looking back through history, a sovereign default is not very rare. It does happen sometimes, even though a state can pay its bills. By BENJAMIN FREDRICH

“Putin is an aggressor,” says Joachim Gauck. “Aggression develops from might-derogating behaviour,” according to the Duden Online. “The world is a matter of opinion,” says KATAPULT.

Europe’s Green Parties enjoy differing levels of success. While some pass unnoticed, others, such as the big parties are successful. By THE EDITORIAL TEAM

Scientific studies confirm a decreasing trend of anti-Semitism in Germany. Prof. Dr. Wolfgang Benz explains why this doesn’t mention anything about the extent of anti-Zionism and "secondary anti-Semitism". By WOLFGANG BENZ

When Narendra Modi was elected to be the new prime minister in May 2014, he promised a "new India". Why will this remain a meaningless promise and which role does the middle class own? Explained by ANNA MARIA REIMER

The Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS), Al-Qaeda and the Taliban use different policies. Nevertheless, they are all united over one ideology: jihadism. A social-scientific analysis by ANDREAS ARMBORST

Why does a state have to spy on rival or friendly states? What is a psychological intelligence service? and what is it's purpose? By HELMUT MÜLLER ENBERGS

Parents receive one additional vote per child. That is the suggestion being made by certain politicians, in an effort to pay more attention to the interests of children. HUBERTUS BUCHSTEIN, explains why it is better not to give the "children's voice" just to parents.

In recent years, the German federal provinces have acquired new powers in the sphere of agricultural politics. How active has the legislature of provincial parliaments become in the face of these developments? A comparison by JULIA OPPAT and STEFAN EWERT