Germany Proposes Stripping Voting Rights in Extreme Hate Speech Cases
Federal Justice Minister Stefanie Hubig has defended a proposed law to remove passive voting rights for those convicted of serious case status of incitement to hatred. The measure would apply only in extreme cases, where sentences exceed six months in prison. Hubig stressed that the aim is to protect democracy rather than target specific political groups.
The draft law has sparked debate, with some parties voicing strong objections. Hubig acknowledged that the AfD (Alternative für Deutschland) felt particularly affected but denied the legislation was aimed at them. She noted their criticism but insisted the rule would apply only to the most severe cases, such as Holocaust denial, violent incitement, or attacks on human dignity.
Prosecutions for incitement to hatred have surged in recent years, covering hate speech against Jews, migrants, and other groups. Hubig explained that the change would be narrowly defined, lasting five years and requiring an independent court’s approval. She also clarified that the measure would not be automatic—judges would decide on a case-by-case basis.
The minister emphasised that the proposal is about safeguarding democratic values. While the AfD’s Thuringia leader, Björn Höcke, has been a vocal critic, Hubig reiterated that the law is not designed to single out any party. Instead, it focuses on upholding legal consequences for extreme hate cases.
If passed, the law would mark a strict but limited response to rising hate speech convictions. Only those given prison terms of over six months could face temporary loss of passive voting rights. The final decision would remain with the courts, ensuring judicial oversight in each case.
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