In recent years, German authorities have started using a defamation law, passed during Angela Merkel’s administration, more frequently. Critics argue that this could threaten free speech, while supporters call for stricter measures. Over 1,300 cases involving defamation have been registered in the last three years, with journalists being defendants in some cases.
The government coalition, including the Green Party, has been notably using this law to target social media posts and memes. Politicians like Armin Laschet, former head of North Rhine-Westphalia, argue that insulting a leader in a democracy should not lead to legal action, as it could transform the country’s political system into a dictatorship.
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