Ahead of the presentation of the 2026 budget proposal by Federal Finance Minister Lars Klingbeil, the German Police Union (GdP) is calling for increased spending on domestic security, advocating for a modification of the enshrined debt brake within the Basic Law.
GdP Federal Chairman Jochen Kopelke, in statements to the “Rhinische Post” argued that domestic security should be exempted from the debt brake, mirroring the current treatment of external security. He proposed that expenditures for security authorities at both the federal and state levels be included in the scope of the area exception outlined in section 1a, paragraph 1, of Article 115 law.
Kopelke emphasized a perceived intensification of threats, stating, “We are being attacked from within”. He cited a rising tide of cyberattacks, drone usage, acts of sabotage, espionage and disinformation campaigns as key concerns.
The union chairman highlighted the diverse challenges currently facing law enforcement, including an increase in violent protests by extremist groups, a rise in knife crime, international drug trafficking within German ports and the escalating problem of cybercrime. “We need more police officers and more funding to address these enormous tasks here at home” Kopelke stated.
Finance Minister Klingbeil is scheduled to present his draft budget for 2026 to the cabinet this Wednesday.
