Logo

Germany Today

German news in English

Friday, January 31, 2025

Germany Strengthens Top Court Protections

Published: 2024-12-19

Germany's Bundestag has passed a constitutional reform to safeguard the Federal Constitutional Court from political interference.

The reform, supported by a two-thirds majority, aims to prevent extremist parties from undermining the court's independence.

Key changes include fixing the number of judges, their 12-year term limits, and ensuring continuity until successors are elected.

The move comes amid concerns over the rising influence of the far-right AfD and lessons from Poland, where judicial independence has been eroded.

Interior Minister Nancy Faeser emphasized the importance of protecting democracy's core institutions.

The Bundesrat is expected to approve the reform soon.