The UN Special Rapporteur for Freedom of expressionIrene Khan, has expressed concern in regards to the state of freedom of expression in Germany. Many individuals are afraid to precise their opinions publicly or in digital media, she mentioned in writing after a go to to Germany lasting a number of days. The nation should do extra to guard variety of opinion and debate.
The lawyer had visited Berlin, Leipzig, Dresden, Cologne, Düsseldorf and Karlsruhe up to now few days. According to Khan, Jewish college students, pro-Palestinian activists and ladies’s rights activists, amongst others, expressed worry. Academics, artists, journalists and native politicians additionally expressed issues.
Criminalization restricts debate
The authorities takes the threats significantly, however responds with “criminalization” – for instance by banning sure slogans or monitoring supposedly extremist organizations. This is the incorrect method and contradicts worldwide human rights requirements, mentioned Khan. According to the UN professional, the house for democratic debates is shrinking consequently. In addition, social polarization is accelerated and belief in establishments is broken.
Political forces rooted in racist and authoritarian ideologies use freedom of expression as a weapon, Khan mentioned. This is one cause why anti-Semitism, Islamophobia, hostility in the direction of migrants and gender-specific hatred are growing in Germany.
Report shall be introduced to the UN Human Rights Council in June
It is true that discrimination or violence is prohibited towards this background; However, offensive statements have to be countered via schooling, awareness-raising and dialogue, not via censorship or criminalization. In this context, Khan expressed concern in regards to the doable use of anti-terrorism legal guidelines towards pro-Palestinian activists.
The Special Rapporteur submits her report back to the Human Rights Council United Nations in June 2026.
https://www.zeit.de/gesellschaft/2026-02/vereinte-nationen-sonderberichterstatterin-meinungsfreiheit-deutschland