Germany expands Federal Police powers via new legislation

The German Bundestag and Bundesrat have passed amendments to the Federal Police Act (Bundespolizeigesetz), significantly expanding the powers of the Federal Police to combat crime, extremism, and human smuggling.

Key provisions of the new legislation include the use of real-time biometric facial recognition at stations and other public locations during special danger situations. The law also authorizes the use of artificial intelligence to analyze video footage for suspicious movement patterns, such as the brandishing of weapons or individuals falling onto tracks. Additionally, police will gain enhanced telecommunications surveillance capabilities, including mobile phone tracking and monitoring of messenger services.

To address issues with deportations, the Federal Police can now directly request detention for foreign nationals required to leave the country if they are encountered at airports or train stations. The law also permits random, suspicion-less checks in designated weapon and knife-free zones. While supporters argue these measures respond to a changed security landscape since the previous 1994 law, critics have raised concerns regarding privacy, the potential for racial profiling through suspicion-less controls, and the expansion of state surveillance capabilities.