Germany proposes major reform of intelligence services

The German government has initiated a major reform of its intelligence services, specifically targeting the Federal Intelligence Service (BND) and the Office for the Protection of the Constitution (Verfassungsschutz). The proposed changes aim to shift these agencies from purely information-gathering entities to active operational bodies capable of responding to modern threats.

Key aspects of the reform include expanded digital surveillance, increased use of artificial intelligence for data analysis, and new operative capabilities. These powers would allow the BND to engage in active measures such as cyberattacks against foreign IT infrastructures, sabotage, and data manipulation to counter hybrid threats and espionage.

While there have been reports regarding a potential renaming of the BND to the Federal Intelligence Service (BGD), a spokesperson for the agency has denied these rumors. The reform package, which is currently awaiting deliberation and approval by the Bundestag, also includes provisions for restructuring oversight through an independent control body to monitor expanded surveillance measures.