The aftermath of violent incidents and accidents involving fireworks and firecrackers during New Year’s Eve has ignited a fierce political debate in Germany, with lawmakers proposing divergent strategies to address the escalating issue. The incidents, which resulted in fatalities and injuries, are prompting scrutiny of existing laws and government responsibility.
CDU interior policy spokesperson Alexander Throm, in an interview with “Welt” condemned the “increasing recklessness and perfidy” of perpetrators targeting emergency services with fireworks. He asserted that the Union’s interior ministers at both the federal and state levels will prioritize a response characterized by increased police presence, stringent prosecution, expedited legal proceedings and a firm stance against leniency and relativization. Notably, he acknowledged that much of the activity – the use of homemade fireworks and so-called “Polish firecrackers” – is already illegal but emphasized the urgent need for consistent and effective enforcement.
SPD parliamentary group deputy Sonja Eichwede underscored proposals from Federal Justice Minister Stefanie Hubig for stricter penalties against attacks on police, fire services and emergency responders. While acknowledging the prevalence of pyrotechnic attacks, particularly in major urban areas, she pointed to the effectiveness of firecracker ban zones implemented in cities like Berlin. She suggested expanding the autonomy of municipalities to establish such zones, allowing for a more tailored and localized response to safety concerns.
The AfD has taken a markedly different tone, with interior policy spokesman Martin Hess attributing the events to “years of unrealistic policies”. He advocated for a “zero-tolerance strategy” proposing the deportation of individuals who “trample on our values and laws” as a means of asserting state authority. Hess characterized the current situation as a “political scandal” and evidence of a “security policy bankruptcy” among political leaders.
The Greens have directly implicated Interior Minister Horst Seehofer (CSU), accusing him of neglecting his duties. Green parliamentary group deputy Konstantin von Notz criticized Seehofer’s inaction in providing legal support and resources to cities and municipalities prior to New Year’s Eve, leaving communities vulnerable. Von Notz argued that Seehofer must revise the Explosives Act to provide legal certainty for local authorities seeking to combat firework misuse; the government’s reliance on investigative inquiries was seen as a delaying tactic.
Left Party interior policy spokesperson Clara Bünger broadened the scope of responsibility, suggesting a need to address the root causes of the violence. She questioned whether systemic issues – including cuts to youth programs, the reintroduction of mandatory military service and the handling of pro-Palestinian demonstrations – were contributing to a sense of alienation and frustration amongst young people. Bünger also reiterated calls for a comprehensive firecracker ban, citing recent tragic deaths and injuries, particularly among minors. She argued that the incidents demonstrate the inherent dangers of firecrackers for both individuals and the environment.