The correct answer is:
press
Presse
Independent study resource, not a BAMF website. Translations are study aids; the exam is in German.
Quick explanation
The press is not a power of the state.
Why is this correct?
The three powers of the state are legislation, executive power (government) and the judiciary; the press is independent of the state.
Background
The Basic Law divides state power into three branches (Article 20(2)): legislation (the legislature, i.e. parliament), executive power (the executive, i.e. government and administration) and the judiciary (the courts). This separation of powers prevents any one body from gaining too much power.
Why are the other answers wrong?
The press is often called the “fourth estate” because it scrutinises those in power. But that is only a metaphor: the press is not a state power, it is independent of the state. Legislation, government and the judiciary are the three powers of the state.
Memory tip
Three state powers: making laws, carrying them out, judging. The press is free and not one of them.
Legal basis: Art. 20 Basic Law (GG) ↗
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