Parliamentary Inquiry Raises Concerns Over Data Collection on Individuals with Mental Health Conditions by Security Agencies
Berlin, Germany – July 11, 2025 – A new parliamentary inquiry, designated as Drucksache 21/854, has been published today by the German Bundestag, shedding light on reported concerns regarding the data collection and storage practices of security authorities in relation to individuals with mental health conditions. The inquiry, officially titled “Kleine Anfrage Berichte über Bedenken gegen die Datenerfassung und -speicherung zu Menschen mit psychischen Erkrankungen durch Sicherheitsbehörden,” signals a growing parliamentary interest in ensuring that civil liberties are upheld while maintaining necessary security measures.
The publication of this document at 10:00 AM signifies the formal commencement of parliamentary scrutiny into this sensitive issue. While the document itself is a “Kleine Anfrage,” or minor inquiry, it serves as a crucial platform for parliamentarians to formally request information and clarification from the government on specific matters. This type of inquiry typically precedes more in-depth discussions or potential legislative actions.
The core of the inquiry revolves around reports that have surfaced concerning potential reservations or objections to how personal data pertaining to individuals diagnosed with mental health conditions is being gathered and retained by German security agencies. The specific nature of these reports and the security authorities involved are expected to be detailed in the official response to the inquiry, which will be provided by the government in due course.
Such inquiries are a vital component of democratic oversight, allowing elected representatives to question government actions and ensure accountability. In this instance, the focus on individuals with mental health conditions highlights the particular vulnerability of this group and the importance of robust data protection and privacy safeguards. Concerns could potentially range from the necessity and proportionality of data collection, the methods employed, the security of stored information, and the potential for discrimination or stigmatization.
The German Bundestag, through this inquiry, is demonstrating a commitment to addressing potential societal concerns and ensuring that the work of security agencies is conducted within legal and ethical boundaries. The findings and responses generated by this inquiry will be crucial in informing public discourse and potentially shaping future policies and guidelines related to data handling and the rights of individuals with mental health conditions.
Further details are anticipated as the government prepares its official response to Drucksache 21/854. This parliamentary initiative underscores the ongoing debate surrounding the balance between security imperatives and the fundamental rights and privacy of citizens, particularly for those in potentially vulnerable situations.
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Drucksachen published ’21/854: Kleine Anfrage Berichte über Bedenken gegen die Datenerfassung und -speicherung zu Menschen mit psychischen Erkrankungen durch Sicherheitsbehörden (PDF)’ at 2025-07-11 10:00. Please write a detailed article about this news in a polite tone with relevant information. Please reply in English with the article only.