Cottbus to also rely on more surveillance cameras in fight against violence - Cottbus schools face violence surge as leaders push for stricter security
Violence in Cottbus schools has surged far above the Brandenburg average, prompting calls for stricter security. Between 2024 and 2025, incidents rose by 28% in the city—more than double the state's 12% increase. Now, local leaders are pushing for new measures, including expanded video surveillance and tougher penalties for offenders.
Recent data from the Brandenburg Ministry of Education shows a sharp rise in school violence, with hotspots at Goerdeler-Grundschule and Copernicus-Gymnasium. The Sachsendorf district has seen some of the worst incidents, leading to discussions about expulsions for repeat offenders.
Mayor Tobias Schick (SPD) has proposed several steps to tackle the issue. These include lowering the age of criminal responsibility from 14 and moving disruptive students to alternative learning centres. He also wants to increase video surveillance across the city, arguing it would deter violent behaviour.
However, Schick has faced obstacles. He claims strict data protection laws and the need to amend the public order act are slowing progress. His plans align with those of Jan Redmann, the incoming CDU interior minister, who has also called for modern surveillance systems.
Interior Minister René Wilke (SPD) has previously supported more cameras in high-risk areas. But with legal hurdles remaining, the city must now decide how to balance security with existing regulations.
Cottbus officials are under pressure to act as school violence continues to climb. The proposed measures—lowering the age of criminal responsibility, removing troubled students, and expanding surveillance—could reshape how the city handles discipline. Implementation, however, depends on overcoming legal and bureaucratic challenges in the coming months.
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