The correct answer is:
a federal state.
ein Bundesstaat.
Independent study resource, not a BAMF website. Translations are study aids; the exam is in German.
Quick explanation
Germany is a federal state.
Why is this correct?
Public responsibilities are divided between the federation and 16 states; Germany is not a monarchy, dictatorship or socialist unitary state.
Background
Germany is a federal state: it consists of 16 states that together form the federation. The states have their own constitutions, parliaments and governments and are responsible, for example, for schools and the police. Through the Bundesrat, they take part in federal legislation. The Basic Law gives this federal order special protection: under the eternity clause it may not be abolished.
Why are the other answers wrong?
The GDR was a socialist state until 1990. Germany was a dictatorship under National Socialism. There was a monarchy with an emperor until 1918. None of these describes Germany today.
Memory tip
Federal Republic = a federal state of 16 states.
Legal basis: Art. 20 Basic Law (GG) ↗, Art. 79 Basic Law (GG) ↗
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