Germany was probably at least as divided as Italy (Germany was also divided between between protestant and catholic whereas italy was almost 100% catholic). But Germany had a much more powerful and competent state and a much better pitch to its citizens- being the richest and most dynamic european economy and all- which allowed it to paper over the differences.

The UK has the stingiest welfare and healthcare systems in Western Europe but the lowest murder rate. The actual difference in the justice system is much greater surveillance and much less concern for due process and the rights of the accused than in the US. The fact that European countries can get away with shorter sentences is due to the fact that these countries actually allow these cops to go catch criminals and lock them up. Of course they also are allowed to imprison people for social media shitposts so there is a genuine trade off. Japan has the lowest violent crime rate in the world and their justice system is largely based on coercing confessions out of people and skipping the trial.