Bundestag to Discuss Bill to Abolish German Institute for Human Rights
Berlin, February 11, 2025 – The German Bundestag is set to debate a bill on February 11, 2025, that aims to abolish the German Institute for Human Rights (DIMR). The bill, introduced by the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party, has sparked controversy over its implications for human rights protection in the country.
Background of the Bill
The bill, titled “Draft Law to Repeal the Act on the Legal Status and Functions of the German Institute for Human Rights,” was submitted by AfD members Stephan Brandner, Thomas Seitz, Fabian Jacobi, and other party members. It argues that the DIMR is an unnecessary institution that duplicates the work of other human rights organizations.
According to the bill’s proponents, the DIMR’s abolition would save the government approximately €20 million per year and would eliminate an alleged bias towards leftist or progressive views within the human rights field. They claim that the institute has been overly critical of government policies, particularly in areas such as immigration and security.
Criticisms and Concerns
The bill has been met with widespread criticism from human rights groups and members of the Bundestag. Amnesty International Germany has condemned the proposed abolition as a “grave attack on human rights protection in Germany.” Human Rights Watch has also expressed concern, stating that the DIMR plays a vital role in monitoring and advocating for human rights in the country.
Within the Bundestag, the bill is facing opposition from the governing Social Democratic Party (SPD), the Green Party, and the Free Democratic Party (FDP). Members of these parties have argued that the DIMR is an essential institution that provides independent and expert advice on human rights issues. They have also expressed concern that the abolition of the institute would weaken Germany’s commitment to human rights protection both domestically and internationally.
Potential Implications
If the bill is passed, the German Institute for Human Rights would be abolished and its functions would be transferred to the Federal Ministry of Justice or another government agency. This would potentially result in a significant reduction in independent oversight and advocacy for human rights in Germany.
The bill’s passage would also send a negative signal to the international community, suggesting that Germany is retreating from its commitment to human rights protection. It could also impact Germany’s reputation as a global leader in human rights.
Upcoming Debate
The Bundestag is scheduled to debate the bill on February 11, 2025. The outcome of the debate is uncertain, but it is expected to be a contentious issue that will draw significant public attention. The final decision on whether to abolish the DIMR will ultimately be made by a vote of the Bundestag members.
20/14931: Bericht zu dem Gesetzentwurf der Abgeordneten Stephan Brandner, Thomas Seitz, Fabian Jacobi, weiterer Abgeordneter und der Fraktion der AfD – Drucksache 20/7349 – Entwurf eines Gesetzes zur Aufhebung des Gesetzes über die Rechtsstellung und Aufgaben des Deutschen Instituts für Menschenrechte (PDF)
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