UN Expert Raises Alarm Over Restrictions on Freedom of Expression in Germany

Irene Khan, the United Nations Special Rapporteur on the right to freedom of expression, has publicly voiced serious concerns about increasing restrictions on free speech in Germany. During visits to cities including Berlin, Leipzig, Dresden, Cologne, Düsseldorf, and Karlsruhe, Khan observed a troubling climate where various groups—particularly pro-Palestinian activists, Jewish students, women’s rights advocates, journalists, and academics—fear openly expressing their views.

Khan highlighted that Germany’s government is responding to expressions of dissent with measures she considers disproportionate and contrary to international human rights standards. These include the criminalization of dissent, a focus on security-oriented policies that undermine democratic debate, and the broad application of laws against extremism. She criticized government actions such as heightened protections for officials against public criticism and blanket bans on slogans used by activists as inconsistent with freedom of expression rights.

Of particular concern to Khan was the use of vague anti-terrorism legislation to restrict advocacy related to Palestinian rights. She stressed that such justifications are imprecise and lead to unjust limitations on legitimate activism. These government practices risk exacerbating social polarization instead of fostering constructive dialogue.

Khan, appointed by the UN Human Rights Council as an independent expert, intends to submit a detailed report on her findings at the UN Human Rights Council in June. She underlined the need for Germany to harmonize its security measures with international human rights obligations to ensure the protection of freedom of expression for all individuals.

Her observations underscore a delicate balance between security and civil liberties in Germany, emphasizing that excessive restrictions threaten democratic values and inclusive political participation.