A proposal for a nationwide ban on carrying knives in Germany gains momentum in the wake of a recent attack at Hamburg’s main train station, which left 18 people injured.
Experts in the field of interior politics are calling for a comprehensive ban on carrying knives, citing the need to reduce the number of knives carried on the streets. Sebastian Fiedler, the interior policy spokesperson for the SPD’s parliamentary group, told the Stern, “We need a nationwide ban on carrying knives in Germany. We must achieve a situation where fewer knives are carried on the street.” Fiedler emphasized that while a ban would be in place, there would be exceptions for professionals who require knives for their work, similar to the current situation.
The FDP, on the other hand, has consistently opposed a blanket ban, but Fiedler believes that the measure would also have a positive impact on the trend of violent conflicts involving knives, as police would be less likely to use firearms in such situations. He stressed that the message would be clear: knives in public spaces are just as unacceptable as firearms.
The German Police Union (GdP) also supports a nationwide ban, with its chairman, Jochen Kopelke, stating, “Knives have no place on the street, at the train station, or in public spaces.” While a ban could be a significant step, Kopelke emphasized that it would be insufficient on its own and that a comprehensive approach is needed, including effective controls, swift and severe punishment and targeted prevention measures, particularly for young people and repeat offenders. Only through such a multi-faceted approach can the increasing knife violence be effectively reduced and public safety be enhanced.