Unconstitutional? German intelligence to receive more powers
German intelligence agencies have been calling for more powers in the fight against cyberattacks, terrorism and extremism. Now the government has given the go. Critics warn that red lines are being crossed.
The Federal Office for the Protection of the Constitution (BfV) and the Federal Intelligence Service (BND) are covert intelligence agencies that operate domestically and abroad. They seek greater powers to better protect Germany from internal and external threats. The cabinet approved the draft bill on Wednesday, and parliamentary approval is expected in early September.
However, the reform is considered a significant change since the end of World War II. The BND and BfB would gain the ability to neutralize enemy IT systems, manipulate or delete data, and carry out acts of sabotage abroad. They would also be given new powers in their traditional mission of collecting and analyzing information, including the use of artificial intelligence and cross-referencing biometric data.
The Society for Civil Rights has raised concerns about the draft bill, particularly regarding the extensive domestic surveillance and biometric matching against publicly available images. They argue that these measures lack sufficient limits and could infringe on constitutional rights. The opposition socialist Left Party has also expressed opposition to the reform, fearing it will lead to a secret police in Germany.
The Association of the Internet Industry has raised concerns about the state's interest in maintaining security gaps for intelligence agency access.
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