Charge against the last generation: Where is the legal protection for protest?

Charge against the last generation: Where is the legal protection for protest?

The indictment against five members of the environmental group "Last generation" about suspected the formation of a criminal association caused excitement in Germany. In May 2023, the Munich General Prosecutor's Office carried out a large -scale raid, which was led by the Bavarian Central Office to combat extremism and terrorism (ZET) and the State Criminal Police Office. A total of 170 police officers searched 15 objects in seven federal states. During this campaign, the group's website was temporarily switched off, and indications appeared that the group should be classified as a criminal association.

The Munich General Prosecutor's Office has now confirmed the indictment against the activists, but concrete allegations have not been published. The Munich I Regional Court now has to decide whether there is a process. Until a possible conviction applies to the accused's presumption of innocence. This charges also linked with previous procedures in Brandenburg, where members of the "last generation" were charged with attacks on facilities such as oil refineries and airports.

reputation damage and public reactions

The investigative authorities are exposed to a wave of criticism. Amnesty International described the measures as "attack on the right to peaceful protest" and condemned the investigating authorities for their repressive course. A worrying trend shows itself in which peaceful demonstrators stigmatize, criminalize and attack, as shown in a report by Amnesty International on the restrictive measures in 21 European countries. Julia Duchrow, General Secretary of Amnesty International in Germany, calls for a turnaround in dealing with protest.

Minister of Climate Protection Robert Habeck also critically commented on the raid and called her "completely absurd". The charges against the members of the “last generation” primarily coercion in the room that is associated with various street blocks. Carla Hinrichs, one of the accused and former spokeswoman for the group, emphasized that her organization primarily aims to solve the public about the climate crisis. She argues that the "crimes" they committed are of minor importance.

legal framework and the future of protest

The current situation raises questions about legality and fundamental rights. In particular, the application of invasive surveillance technologies that are used to detort and intimidation by demonstrators is perceived as questionable. Amnesty International documented that many governments in Europe restrict the right to peaceful assembly, which endangers the democratic basic order. These repressive measures are not only used in Germany, but are also shown in other countries.

For more information, follow the links to the articles of Kosmo , tz and Amnesty International .