Systemic Discrimination in German Police Practices

A recent study by Mediendienst Integration reveals systemic discrimination within German police practices, highlighting routine racial profiling and the use of ethnic stereotypes. Ethnic minorities, especially those perceived as migrants, are disproportionately targeted. The study emphasizes the need for addressing these discriminatory practices amid rising racism and far-right political influences.

German police practices perpetuate systemic discrimination, with officers routinely engaging in racial profiling and relying on ethnic stereotypes, according to a study published Monday by an immigration and asylum data tracking portal.

The research by Mediendienst Integration raises concerns among activists about growing racism in Germany and the influence of the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party. Ethnic minorities, particularly those seen as migrants, face disproportionate targeting in patrols and police interactions, the study conducted in Lower Saxony reveals.

There was no immediate response from the interior ministry. The study indicates officers often prioritize racial markers over behavior in proactive patrols. Individuals perceived as 'Black Africans' or 'Albanians' face heightened scrutiny, while southern Europeans, Russians, and so-called 'clan' members are mischaracterized as more violent, prompting exaggerated police responses.

Research from two professors at the Lower Saxony Police Academy also finds officers assume hostility from young Arab or Turkish men and politically left-leaning individuals, leading to over-policing and reinforced negative stereotypes. Language barriers worsen discrimination, with non-German speakers facing truncated interviews and incomplete investigations.

Activists and some politicians accuse the police of inadequate efforts to expose violent nationalists within their ranks, a sensitive issue in Germany given its Nazi history. In 2020, 29 officers were suspended for sharing Nazi-related images in private chats.

(With inputs from agencies.)