The correct answer is:
the courts.
die Gerichte.
Independent study resource, not a BAMF website. Translations are study aids; the exam is in German.
Quick explanation
The courts are not part of the executive but of the judiciary.
Why is this correct?
The police, tax office and ministries carry out laws and are therefore part of the executive.
Background
Executive means the power that carries out the laws. It includes the federal and state governments with their ministries and all authorities that apply laws in everyday life – for example the police, the tax office, the job centre or the citizens’ office. The courts, on the other hand, form a separate power, the judiciary. Judges are independent and subject only to the law (Article 97 of the Basic Law).
Why are the other answers wrong?
The police, the tax office and ministries are typical examples of the executive: they apply laws. Courts, by contrast, decide disputes and can also review decisions made by the executive.
Memory tip
The executive carries out, the judiciary judges – courts judge.
Legal basis: Art. 20 Basic Law (GG) ↗, Art. 97 Basic Law (GG) ↗
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