The chronicle of the Foreign Ministry
The Foreign Office, known as the Auswärtiges Amt in German, has a rich history dating back to the 19th century. Its name originated in the North German Confederation in 1870 and the German Reich in 1871. During Bismarck's time, the Foreign Office consisted of only two departments: the Political Department and a second department covering foreign trade, legal, and consular affairs.
Throughout German history, the Foreign Office has been a part of both legitimate and illegitimate regimes. During Bismarck's chancellorship, it played a crucial role in shaping Germany's foreign policy. However, during the Nazi dictatorship, it was part of the illegitimate regime.
The Foreign Office underwent reform during the Weimar Republic and again during the Nazi dictatorship. During this dark period, some diplomats, such as Ulrich von Hassell and Adam von Trott zu Solz, bravely joined the resistance, paying for their participation with their lives.
After World War II, the Foreign Office was re-established in the Federal Republic of Germany. Initially, it was located in Bonn. The Foreign Service of the Federal Republic of Germany was successfully integrated into the western democratic world and its international organizations. However, the involvement of the Foreign Office in the crimes of the "Third Reich" was a matter of concern.
An independent historical commission, known as the "Independent Historical Commission for the Study of the Foreign Office in the Nazi Era," was commissioned by the German government to investigate this issue. The results of this investigation were published in 2010, shedding light on the Foreign Office's role during the Nazi era.
The investigation revealed that the Foreign Office, under the Nazi regime, was involved in various atrocities, including the planning and execution of the Final Solution. This revelation sparked a national debate and led to a reassessment of Germany's past.
In 1999, as part of the government's move to Berlin, the Foreign Office was moved back to its original location in the heart of the capital. Since then, it has been located in the capital of Germany.
The Foreign Service of the Federal Republic of Germany has consistently been integrated into the international organisations, playing a significant role in shaping Germany's foreign policy in the post-war era. Today, it continues to be a vital part of the German government, working towards maintaining peace and fostering international cooperation.
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