A divergence of opinion is emerging within Germany’s governing coalition regarding the deployment of data analysis software developed by US firm Palantir within German security agencies.
Marc Henrichmann, Chairman of the German Parliament’s intelligence control committee, emphasized the need for maintaining access to functional systems while simultaneously fostering domestic capabilities. In comments to the “Handelsblatt” newspaper, Henrichmann stated that German police require “powerful analytical tools” to effectively protect the population. He characterized the Palantir software, currently utilized by several regional police forces, as an analytical instrument-not a surveillance tool-but cautioned against long-term reliance on foreign suppliers.
Conversely, Sebastian Fiedler, an SPD interior policy spokesperson, expressed significant concerns about Germany’s security interests. He argued that engaging Palantir indirectly supports a prominent detractor of democratic principles-referencing the company’s founder, Peter Thiel-and creates a dependency on a US-based company in a critical technology sector. This dependence, he contends, disadvantages German firms which have historically lost out on relevant contracts.
Germany’s Federal Interior Ministry is currently pursuing the “P20” project, aiming to establish a new structure and network for police forces, which includes plans for nationwide implementation of data analysis software. However, a ministry spokesperson clarified to “Handelsblatt” that any evaluation will be based on the functional needs of the police and not predetermined product choices.
Federal security agencies are urging a decision on the matter. A spokesperson for the Federal Police stated a need for robust analytical capabilities, while a representative of the Federal Criminal Police Office (BKA) noted that requirements for a shared analysis platform are currently being finalized through the P20 program, in coordination with police forces across Germany.