In Brussels, Paris, Washington and other capitals, one increasingly hears the same complaint: Germany is acting unilaterally. On a broad range of issues, the Germans seem to think the European Union no longer advances their interests and are more prone to go their own way. Germany’s foreign policy has evolved in a manner that leaves the EU – and perhaps the Atlantic alliance – weaker. Consider five key policy areas.

Since the financial crisis struck, Germany has dragged its feet over co-ordinated action at EU level. Germany’s current account surplus and balanced budget give it more leeway than its partners to boost demand, but it has avoided a significant stimulus.