In a stunning display of misplaced priorities, German authorities fined a man €5,000 for “insulting” a judge after he criticized the lenient sentencing of a Syrian rapist.
The Syrian, who raped a 15-year-old girl in 2022, received no jail time—just probation and a €3,000 payment to the victim. Shockingly, the judge praised the rapist during sentencing, saying he was “on his way to becoming a normal citizen” and minimized the crime, calling its intensity “at the lower end.”
Paul S., the critic, emailed the judge, describing them as “mentally disturbed” for their ruling. Instead of addressing the root issue of the controversial sentence, the court fined Paul S. almost double what the rapist was required to pay. Though his penalty was later reduced on appeal, the case underscores growing concerns over free speech suppression in Germany.
This is just one example of Germany’s escalating crackdown on dissent. Citizens face police raids, hefty fines, and even criminal charges for daring to criticize politicians or judicial decisions. From calling a politician an “idiot” to referring to the Foreign Minister as a “hollow brat,” such remarks are now treated as federal offenses. One pensioner was even arrested for retweeting a meme that labeled Green Economy Minister Robert Habeck an “idiot.”
Critics argue that Germany’s obsession with policing speech is eroding democracy. Udo Vetter, a defense lawyer, lamented that resources are wasted prosecuting trivial online comments while serious crime rises. Police officers, frustrated by these petty cases, have reportedly voiced their disbelief over the misplaced priorities.
Adding to the irony, many of these cases collapse on appeal. A Bavarian woman fined €6,000 for an insult against Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock was acquitted after the court acknowledged the absurdity of prosecuting her over a tweet with just 216 views.
Germany’s drift toward censorship is troubling, with critics labeling it draconian. While free speech advocates continue to push back, it’s clear that the country’s leaders prioritize shielding politicians and the judiciary from criticism over addressing the concerns of everyday citizens.
