Lower Saxony Tackles Online Hate: New Platform, Federal Law Proposed
Lower Saxony's Ministry of Justice hosted a panel discussion to tackle online hate and enhance reporting processes. The event featured Justice Minister Kathrin Wahlmann (SPD), influencer and author Tara-Louise Wittwer, Franziska Benning (HateAid), and Chief Prosecutor Frank Laue (Central Office for Combating Online Hate Crime).
The panel explored the challenges and solutions in combating online hate. The rise of AI and deepfakes, along with platform compliance with European law, emerged as significant obstacles. Currently, most cases are resolved via penal orders, often without victims being informed of the outcomes. Media focus on high-profile cases also skews public perception.
To address these issues, the 'hassanzeigen.de' platform was introduced. It allows victims to submit evidence anonymously, withholding private addresses and providing case outcome updates. This is a departure from standard justice system practices. Led by Chief Prosecutor Frank Laue, the specialized unit has processed 5,500 cases this year, with an improved rate of identifying perpetrators.
Justice Minister Kathrin Wahlmann is advocating for a federal law against digital violence in the Bundesrat, enabling victims to petition for post removal and account blocking. While no such demand was made in October 2025, the ministry continues to push for improved protection against online hate.
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