Germany

This chapter summarises the legal situation regarding hateful expression in Germany. Such statements are also covered by freedom of expression. However, this does not mean that hate speech is not punishable in Germany in view of the rights of those affected. Increasingly, social network providers are also involved in the fight against hate speech. International conventions, although signed by Germany, are at best of minor importance in dealing with hate speech. Also the impact of European legal instruments on national criminal law is still rather limited. Instead, legislation in Germany primarily reacts to current events and social developments. Sometimes reference is made to the special historical responsibility that Germany has due to the crimes of the National Socialist reign of violence and arbitrariness.