The Role and Place of Germany in the European Union in 1999 - 2023

The thesis paper is focused on the research object of the recently changing role of Germany in the European Union, which is relevant for the future of the supranational organization. The research concentrates on answering the question whether Germany today is the descending leader in the EU. The theoretical overview of the concepts of "imperialism", "hegemony" and "leadership", and the role of Germany through the lens of international relations theoretical frameworks, has provided a basis for a more in-depth analysis of the country's domestic and foreign policies and motives. While the background and reasons for Germany's inability to achieve a hegemonic position and maintain leadership are explored through an analysis of both domestic and international factors, as well as case studies of Germany's role in the Eurozone, Refugee, Covid-19, and Ukraine crises, the content (textual) analysis of articles and EU documents,and quantitative analysis of statistical data on Germany's economic and political performance. The research suggests that the state has lost its position in the supranational organization and is unlikely to regain it due to the unwillingness of the German government to maintain its leadership position, the weakening of its ability to influence other countries, domestic political instability,and especially the economic recession and its consequences. Nevertheless, the study discusses possible conditions and reforms that Germany could implement to return to its previous role in the EU in the future.