Germany Focuses on Combating Online Hate Speech with New Parliamentary Inquiry
Berlin, Germany – July 14, 2025 – The German Bundestag has today released a new document, Drucksachen 21/863, titled “Kleine Anfrage Fragen zum sogenannten 12. Aktionstag gegen Hasspostings im Netz” (Minor Inquiry Questions Regarding the so-called 12th Day of Action Against Hate Postings Online). This publication signals a continued parliamentary commitment to addressing the persistent challenge of online hate speech within the Federal Republic.
The “Kleine Anfrage” (Minor Inquiry) is a parliamentary instrument that allows a certain number of Members of Parliament (MPs) to formally request information from the government on specific issues. The release of this document today indicates that a group of MPs has initiated a formal inquiry into the effectiveness and strategies surrounding the “12th Day of Action Against Hate Postings Online.”
While the specific content of the questions remains private until they are officially answered by the relevant government ministries, the title itself provides significant insight into the Bundestag’s ongoing efforts. The “Day of Action Against Hate Postings Online” is an initiative designed to raise awareness and promote concrete measures to counter the proliferation of hateful content and disinformation on digital platforms. The fact that this is the “12th” such day suggests a sustained and iterative approach to tackling this complex societal problem.
This inquiry is likely to delve into various aspects of the government’s strategy, potentially including:
- The effectiveness of past Days of Action: MPs may be seeking data and assessments on the impact of previous awareness campaigns and initiatives.
- Collaboration with social media platforms: The inquiry could explore the nature of partnerships between the government and online service providers, and the extent to which platforms are implementing measures to combat hate speech.
- Legal and regulatory frameworks: Questions might address the adequacy of existing laws and regulations, or propose potential new measures to hold platforms and individuals accountable for online hate speech.
- Educational and prevention programs: The Bundestag may be interested in the government’s efforts to promote media literacy and critical thinking skills among citizens to inoculate them against harmful online content.
- Resources and funding: The inquiry could also seek to understand the allocation of resources and funding dedicated to combating online hate speech.
The proactive engagement of parliamentary bodies like the Bundestag in questioning government actions and strategies is a cornerstone of democratic accountability. By initiating this inquiry, the MPs are demonstrating a clear intention to scrutinize and potentially enhance Germany’s approach to creating a safer and more respectful online environment for all citizens. The answers provided by the government in response to these questions will offer valuable insights into the nation’s ongoing commitment to combating online hate speech.
21/863: Kleine Anfrage Fragen zum sogenannten 12. Aktionstag gegen Hasspostings im Netz (PDF)
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