Isn´t France actually on a way to more decentralization, after the establishment of fewer regional bodies (Departments) ???
The one thing I find quite convincing in the German political system, is a certain geographical spread of its institutions. Several important courts are not based in the capital, which in theory, makes them somewhat more independent.
EU: I wouldn´t overestimate the power of the EU or influential countries like Germany. In the end national budget control AND legislation, even on regional/ local level, is far more important.
Germany: Its true that Germany is "perceived" as a strong EU member, but within the EU system hegemonic influence is impossible. Germany is always dependent on on partners like longterm allies France, Italy, Netherlands.
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Berlin
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