The Federal Ministry of the Interior and the Federal Ministry of Family Affairs have launched a new project, a hotline for reporting alleged conspiracy theorists in one’s social environment. The “Beratungskompass Verschwörungsdenken” is a hotline that can be reached by phone or through an anonymous online chat, as well as by email or in-person appointment.
The hotline is intended for individuals who have “problems” with conspiracy theories and ideologies, in their family, social circle, workplace, or with clients or students. The ministers, Nancy Faeser and Lisa Paus, state that conspiracy theories are a form of misinformation that can lead to social division and even extremism.
The hotline is open to anyone who wants to report perceived conspiracy theorists and the information provided can be used to initiate investigations or other measures. The project is part of the federal government’s “Demokratie leben!” program, which aims to combat extremism and promote democratic values.
The project has been met with criticism, as some argue that it is an invitation to denounce political opponents and that the definition of a “conspiracy theory” is too broad and subjective. Others have raised concerns that the project could be used to stifle free speech and political dissent.
The “Demokratie leben!” program has been in existence since 2014 and has funded various projects and organizations that aim to promote democratic values and combat extremism. Some of these organizations have been criticized for their methods and biases and have been accused of promoting a particular political agenda.
The hotline is not the only initiative of its kind, as other political parties and organizations have also launched similar projects. The AfD, for example, has a portal where students and parents can report teachers who they believe are not neutral in their political views. The CDU has also launched a similar project, which aims to promote democratic values and combat extremism.
The debate surrounding the hotline and the “Demokratie leben!” program highlights the complex and controversial nature of the issues of free speech, political dissent and the promotion of democratic values.