Esme Nicholson

For centuries, German law has stipulated that beer can only be made from four ingredients. But as Germany embraces craft beer, some believe the law impedes good brewing.

Hamburg officials say single-use pods waste resources and aren't always recyclable. The city is believed to be the world's first to oust the capsules from schools, offices and other institutions.

Berliners and migrants are getting to know each other through popular songs from Germany, Syria and Eritrea. Every German interested in joining must bring an asylum-seeker with them.

The German parliament votes Friday on whether to send military support for French attacks on ISIS in Syria. The measure is expected to pass the Bundestag.

A new university in Berlin is exclusively geared to refugees. Kiron University relies on existing online courses and aims to be tuition-free and accessible to asylum seekers worldwide.

Many towns in eastern Germany suffered sharp population declines after reunification as the young and educated left. One mayor hopes to rebuild his community with the help of Middle Eastern migrants.

The German chancellor's last name is used locally as a word of action that ironically means to not act at all.

Germany has already sent a delegation to Iran as it looks to restore trade ties. Under the recent nuclear deal, many sanctions will be lifted. But not everyone is thrilled with Germany's move.

In parts of the city, racial segregation in schools is often a reality. But small parent-led initiatives — one immigrant-led, one native-led — have been working to change perceptions and enrollment.

In Berlin, street fashion's trendiest figure is Ali Akdeniz, age 85. His dapper attire is the focus of a blog that went viral. Its creator, Zoe Spawton, won Germany's most prestigious design prize.