Dependence - What does it mean and where does it exist?

However, dependencies only become a problem when relationships between states are reconfigured, or unforeseen events suddenly disrupt the geoeconomic order. In this study, we try to define different types of dependencies and ask when do they exist and when do they become a problem. Therefore, we will approach the concept of dependency by proposing a broad definition that includes political dependencies in addition to geoeconomic dependencies.  The results show that while Germany's economic dependencies may be relatively small in international comparison, major dependencies can be identified in the area of mineral fuels and raw materials. Moreover, dependency can only unfold its full problematic nature in its absolute dimension. In addition, there are phases in which certain dependencies become problematic because conflicts arise between countries and economic dependencies are used as political weapon. Politically, Germany has placed itself in an intentional dependency on the other EU member states and the USA and faces the necessary challenge of global coordination of the climate protection due to the international interdependence in this area.