The trouble with Germany is the need to do too much in person, and thus too much needs to be done on a local level. The UK isn't a great example for much, but

The trouble with Germany is the need to do too much in person, and thus too much needs to be done on a local level. The UK isn't a great example for much, but for instance: * Passport application - controlled centrally. Has been done by post for years. Now available online. * Update car registration - controlled centrally. Has been done by post for years. Now available online. * Register to vote (closest thing the UK has to the anmeldung) - controlled locally. Done by posting or emailing a form to your local council.