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The words, in the photo on the right, lie over the entrance to the Reichstag and translate to The German People, a visual reminder for German politicians as to whom they serve.

Last Sunday, all German ministries held their annual open day where members of the public could tour the ministries and meet the ministers. We went to the Foreign Ministry and the access was such that I now know the incumbent Foreign Minister is a Mac man and I saw the gift that Barack Obama brought when he visited Berlin - there was also a seriously bejewelled pens, earrings and watches set from the Saudi king. There were mini-workshops on what being a diplomat means, Mandarin lessons and chances to question the Foreign Minister, town hall style.

The open day had been heavily advertised and despite the inclement weather, there were a good number of people who did not want to miss the opportunity to get up close and personal with the people who represent them.

As a way of getting people engaged in the political process, the German method gets my vote.