The police in North Rhine-Westphalia (NRW), Germany, will soon be required to disclose the nationality of crime suspects in their press releases.

This decision, announced by Interior Minister Herbert Reul, aims to enhance transparency and address public inquiries regarding the backgrounds of suspects.

Critics, including the German Journalists' Association and the State Integration Council, warn that this could lead to stigmatization and reinforce racial stereotypes.

They argue that crime is more closely linked to social status, age, and gender rather than nationality.

Meanwhile, supporters, including the Free Democratic Party (FDP), believe that naming nationalities will help tackle issues related to foreign crime and improve public trust in law enforcement.

The new policy is expected to take effect in the fall, pending changes to existing media guidelines.