Regierungsbezirk

Regierungsbezirk is a type of administrative division in Germany. The term is translated as "government district" and it is at an intermediate level of administration between the federal states (Bundesländer) and the local government units (Kreise).

History

The institution of Regierungsbezirke dates back to the time of the Kingdom of Prussia. They were created in the early 19th century when Prussia was subdivided into provinces, each of which was then further divided into Regierungsbezirke. This system was adopted by the German Empire and continued to be used in the Weimar Republic and the Third Reich.

Function

The main function of a Regierungsbezirk is to serve as a regional authority for the implementation of federal and state laws and regulations. They are responsible for a wide range of administrative tasks, including the supervision of local government units, the enforcement of environmental and building regulations, and the coordination of regional development programs.

Structure

Each Regierungsbezirk is headed by a Regierungspräsident (government president), who is appointed by the state government. The Regierungspräsident is responsible for the overall administration of the district and for the implementation of state and federal laws within its territory.

Current Regierungsbezirke

As of 2021, there are 19 Regierungsbezirke in Germany, distributed among seven federal states. The states of Bremen, Hamburg, Berlin, Saarland and the city-states do not have Regierungsbezirke.

See also

• States of Germany
• Districts of Germany
• Administrative divisions of Germany