A German politician has called for a comprehensive review of public safety measures in the wake of a recent stabbing incident at Hamburg’s main train station. Konstantin von Notz, the Green Party’s parliamentary group vice-chair, emphasized the need for the federal police to maintain a strong presence at major transportation hubs, such as airports and train stations.
Notz also criticized those who he claimed were more interested in political polarization and division than in genuine efforts to improve public safety. He argued that the government’s focus should be on providing effective support to people with mental health issues, rather than simply increasing surveillance and repression.
The Left Party, meanwhile, has called for better care for people with mental health issues and more prevention measures. Sören Pellmann, the party’s parliamentary group chair, pointed out the gaps in Germany’s psychiatric care system and emphasized the need for a more comprehensive approach to supporting people with mental health issues, including better access to low-threshold help services and a stronger social network.
Pellmann also demanded the expansion of ambulatory and inpatient psychiatric care, as well as the establishment of crisis services and emergency response teams for people with mental health issues, in order to reach and de-escalate them before they commit violent acts.