Hate speech or "incitement of popular hatred" (Volksverhetzung) may be punishable if against segments of the population and in a manner that is capable of disturbing the public peace (Section 130 Agitation of the People), including racist agitation and antisemitism.
It is a criminal offense in Germany to insult others, and it is also illegal to spread lies that demean others. That means freedom of speech is much more restricted in Germany than, for example, in the US, says Nadine Strossen, a professor at New York Law School.
These acts are illegal in Germany: ▪️ Displaying Nazi symbolism, like a swastika ▪️ Denying the Holocaust ▪️ Insulting someone online or in public ▪️ Spreading fake quotes or malicious gossip.
Adolf Hitler designed the Nazi flag in 1920. He combined the swastika with the three colors of the German Imperial flag (red, black, and white). Nazi symbols, including the swastika flag, are banned in a number of countries today, including Germany.
This phenomenon is known as “Ruhezeit.” It basically means that on Sundays (and weeknights after 10 PM), making noise is actually legally forbidden. So, if you think about running the washing machine, mowing your lawn, or vacuuming your house on a Sunday, you might want to think twice.
Policing the internet in Germany, where hate speech, insults are a crime | 60 Minutes
Is it illegal to make noise after 10pm in Germany?
The Domestic Work and Music Noise Ordinance generally stipulates a night-time quiet period between 10 pm and 7 am and a midday quiet period between 12 pm and 3 pm for domestic and gardening work that disturbs the peace.
Can I still take showers during quiet hours in Germany? Don't worry, of course, you can still do your everyday routines during quiet hours in Germany. You can flush the toilet, take a bath or shower at night as usual.
Münch said the number 44 on the jersey could be read as the “rune signs for the letters 'SS,'” used in the 19th and 20th centuries. Unlike in the U.S., the symbols are banned in Germany.
Range of Punishments for Insults under German Defamation Law
A basic insult can be sanctioned with a fine or a custodial sentence of up to one year. In qualified cases, where the insult is made in public or by means of assault, for example, a prison sentence of up to two years is even possible.
Having a loud conversation, talking loud on the phone, or listening to loud music are considered very impolite as you will disturb other people. German people love to have their privacy. If you see a closed door, it doesn't mean that the person inside does not want you to come in.
Nein is the direct translation for how to say “no” in German. This word can be used as a standalone to decline something, or you can add a polite danke after it to be gracious.
That is unusual in Germany. Normally you ask the waiter for the bill while he removes the empty plate of the dessert. If you have an empty glass in front of you, you ask for the checks after the waiter ask you if you want another one.
In total, the Allies took about $413 million worth of reparations (both in money and in goods) from their occupation zones. In 1952, the London Agreement on German External Debts assessed the final reparation figure at $3 billion. Germany has yet to pay off its debts for World War II.
The 2008 Freedom in the World report by US-funded Freedom House gives Germany a score of "1" (the best possible) for both political rights and civil liberties.
Sunday is a “quiet day” in Germany, and a law adopted in 1950 prohibits shops from opening so people can enjoy recreational activities and time with family and friends. Restaurants, cafes, bars, museums and cinemas remain open.
Can you drink hotel bathroom tap water in Germany?
But you can rest assured that tap water in Germany is safe, pure and healthy. Therefore, in most cases, you do not need to buy bottled water. If you see any strange colour, smell, or taste, notify your water supplier or building manager.
In Germany Sunday is also called “Ruhetag”, which translates to “day of rest” (literally meaning “quiet day”). This means that all chores, particularly noisy ones like mowing the lawn or vacuum cleaning the house will have to wait until the next week.
Is it illegal to mow your lawn on a Sunday in Germany?
It is even considered negligent and irresponsible, and can result in fines for drivers. Since Sundays are meant for peace and quiet and rest, this means no mowing the lawn or vacuuming or making any loud noises on Sundays. Recycling incorrectly is prohibited.
In Germany, the act of flipping someone off, also known as showing the middle finger, is generally considered offensive and rude behavior. While it is not specifically illegal to make this gesture, it can potentially lead to legal consequences under certain circumstances.
If you miss a bill, and a few reminders to pay, in the mail, your German bank account can be slapped with a garnishment. That said, the severity of punishments for not quickly repaying debts are also very often exaggerated: No, you wont be jailed for not immediately paying a €200 bill, for instance.
In Germany, self-defence allows individuals to legally protect themselves, others, and their property against unlawful attacks. This right extends beyond physical threats to include protection of property, possessions, and personal rights such as one's image or words.
