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Germany Today

German news in English

Friday, November 22, 2024

Germany Moves to Protect Constitutional Court

Published: 2024-07-23

In a significant move to strengthen the independence of Germany's Federal Constitutional Court, the ruling coalition of SPD, Greens, and FDP, along with the opposition Union party, have agreed to amend the Basic Law.

This reform aims to protect the court from political influence, particularly from extremist parties, by establishing clear regulations regarding the appointment and tenure of judges.

Key proposals include a twelve-year term limit for judges, an age cap of 68, and a fixed structure of 16 judges divided into two senates.

Additionally, a mechanism will be introduced to prevent blockages in appointing judges, allowing the other parliamentary body to step in if necessary.

The changes are expected to be presented in the Bundestag soon, with hopes for approval before the next federal elections in 2025.