German Police Union Leader Calls for New Law to Combat Right-Wing Extremism in German Parliament
The head of the German Police Union, Jochen Kopelke, has expressed concerns over the surge in right-wing extremist crimes in Germany, citing the AfD party’s growing influence as a contributing factor. In an interview, Kopelke emphasized the need for a new law to empower the police in the German parliament to investigate and prevent political crimes.
Kopelke lamented the increasingly rough tone in the German parliament, citing instances of criminal offenses, threats and intimidation. He also mentioned problematic visitor groups, leading the union to demand a new Bundestagspolizeigesetz, or a new law for the German parliament’s police.
The proposed law would grant the police more competencies to investigate and prevent political crimes, according to Kopelke. He believes the German parliament itself needs a security update in its legislation, particularly in light of the AfD’s significant block of seats.
Kopelke also attributed the rise of right-wing extremism to the normalization of extremist views, particularly within the AfD. He warned that extremism and politically motivated crime pose a significant threat to the country’s democratic order.
While the police play a crucial role in combating the issue, Kopelke emphasized that it is a society-wide challenge that requires a collective effort. He urged the government to strengthen the security forces, both financially and legally.
Regarding the ongoing debate over a potential AfD ban, Kopelke expressed a nuanced view, stating that a ban could be considered in the long term but would require a broad political consensus and a high level of political will. He noted that political leaders would be held accountable for the success or failure of such a ban and that a decision would likely be made by the end of the year.