Celebration of the 75th Anniversary of the Federal Office for the Protection of the Constitution in Berlin - BfV Marks 75 Years of Safeguarding Germany's Democracy
Germany's domestic intelligence service, the Federal Office for the Protection of the Constitution (BfV), celebrated its 75th anniversary in 2024. During the jubilee, Thomas Haldenwang served as its president. The agency, established in 1950, safeguards Germany's free and democratic order, with both federal and state governments maintaining their own constitutional protection agencies.
The BfV began operations on November 7, 1950, following a law passed in September of the same year. It upholds the principle of a militant democracy, actively defending against threats to Germany's democratic order. Initially led by Otto John, the agency has since been headed by several prominent figures, including Thomas Haldenwang, who oversaw the 75th anniversary celebrations. In October 2025, Sinan Selen took over as president, succeeding Haldenwang.
Both the federal government and the 16 states in Germany maintain their own constitutional protection agencies. These agencies work together to monitor and counter threats to Germany's democratic values and institutions.
The Federal Office for the Protection of the Constitution, established over seven decades ago, continues to play a crucial role in safeguarding Germany's democratic order. With a history marked by key anniversaries and leadership changes, the agency remains vigilant in its mission to protect the country's free and democratic values.
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